May 2024

Have you ever experienced your dog suddenly racing around the house with boundless energy? This burst, commonly known as the “zoomies,” is a familiar sight to many dog owners. Officially referred to as Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), zoomies are a natural and healthy behavior in dogs. However, they can sometimes lead to chaos or even safety concerns. In this article, we’ll delve into why dogs get the zoomies and provide some tips on how to manage this lively behavior.

Why Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

1. Excess Energy: One of the most common reasons dogs get the zoomies is simply because of pent-up energy. Dogs, especially young and high-energy breeds, need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Without adequate outlets for their energy, they may express it through sudden bursts of activity.
2. Stress Relief: Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety. The zoomies can be a way for them to relieve stress, acting as a release valve for built-up tension. It’s a natural mechanism that helps them reset their emotional state.
3. Happiness and Playfulness: Sometimes, the zoomies are an expression of pure joy and excitement. Dogs might get them when they’re extremely happy or excited, such as after a bath, during playtime, or when their favorite human comes home.
4. Physical Sensations: In some cases, the zoomies might be triggered by things like a bath, snow that melts and wets their fur, or a brushing.
5. Your Dog’s DNA. Dogs and wolves are very closely related genetically. Wolves are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. That’s when they would be out hunting, and it is the reason your dog’s zoomies normally happen around dawn and dusk.

Dealing with Dog Zoomies

While the zoomies are generally harmless, they can sometimes lead to accidents or injuries, especially in confined or cluttered spaces. Here’s how you can manage your dog’s zoomies effectively:

1. Ensure Adequate Exercise: Regular exercise is crucial for your dog’s physical and mental health. Adequate daily exercise can help prevent the zoomies by ensuring your dog doesn’t have excess energy to burn off in such a frenetic manner.
2. Create a Safe Space: If your dog tends to get the zoomies, ensure they have a safe, open space where they can run without the risk of injury. Remove any fragile items or obstacles that could pose a danger during their energetic bursts.
3. Stay Calm: If your dog starts zooming, maintain a calm demeanor. Chasing them or getting overly excited can further stimulate their energy, prolonging the behavior and potentially causing injuries or damage to your apartment or townhome.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage calm behavior through positive reinforcement. Reward your dog when they settle down after a zoomie episode. This can help them learn that calm behavior is also rewarding.
5. Understand the Triggers: If you notice that certain situations consistently trigger the zoomies, try to understand, and modify these triggers. For example, if your dog always gets zoomies after a bath, consider changing your post-bath routine to help them calm down.
6. Consult a Professional: If your dog’s zoomies seem excessive or are accompanied by other concerning behaviors, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer. They can provide guidance and rule out any underlying issues that might be contributing to the behavior.

One of the many reasons people choose to live at VIDA is because we’re pet-friendly. We think pets bring companionship and joy to our lives, and living in an apartment or townhome shouldn’t prevent you from having a pet. If you’re thinking of getting a pet and would like to learn more about VIDA’s pet-friendly policies, just call our leasing office at 585-400-8432 or email us at info@vidarochester.com.