Why Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

Almost every dog owner is familiar with the zoomies—those random bursts of energy that cause your pup to spin in circles, make a flying leap over the couch, or jet off as soon as you unhook their leash at the park. We know why dogs chase their tails, but why do dogs get the zoomies? Pet zoomies are definitely one of those hyper dog behaviors that pet owners have come to expect, but they actually have a technical name—frenetic random activity periods, or FRAPs—and can tell you a lot more about your pup’s mood, including levels of dog anxiety, than you might think.

According to the American Kennel Club, dog zoomies frequently occur when dogs have excess energy, especially physical energy that’s been contained (like if they’re crate-trained) or nervous energy (like when they’ve endured a grooming session). We asked an expert dog behaviorist to explain the common reasons dogs get the zoomies and how you should respond to them, if at all. And for more behaviors to be aware of, don’t miss the ways your dog may be asking for help.

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Why does my dog get so hyper?

1. They are excited

In many cases, dog zoomies are caused by excitement and can occur whenever your pup gets into a high-energy state. Zoomies in puppies can occur after a bath, while your dog might spin in circles after a favorite family member comes home, or zoom around the house when they’re released from their crate. So, while zoomies might mean your dog is happy, they can also be a learned behavior that your dog has picked up to entertain you, especially if you tend to hype them up as they jet around. Similarly, there are certain noises your dog makes that they know get them extra treats. “It may be that the dog has learned that this is a way to instigate attention or to create a game,” says E’Lise Christensen, DVM, DACVB, a veterinarian and board-certified veterinary behaviorist.

2. They are anxious

On the flip side, dog zoomies could be a sign of discomfort. For example, if your pup tends to get the zoomies after a high-stress walk or a trip to the vet, the behavior could be a result of anxiety. “When we see them doing this burst of excitement, it isn’t always a happy excitement,” says Dr. Christensen. “Sometimes you’ll see that their facial muscles are really tense, their ears are back, their muscles are tense, and even if they’re wagging their tail, they’re not wagging their whole body.” If that’s the case, you may want to speak to a professional who can help you get to the root of the problem—and help you learn the things your dog wishes you knew.