Zoomies

UNDERSTANDING FRENETIC RANDOM ACTIVITY PERIODS (FRAPS)

Zoomies are familiar to most dog owners, but for the benefit of those with more sedate pooches, zoomies are when your dog runs wildly around, zipping back and forth for a few moments. These episodes tend to last for a few minutes at most. These periods have a scientific name – Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPS) - and they are a recognised behaviour in happy dogs.

What causes zoomies?

Zoomies are more common in puppies and young dogs, but they are a great way for any age dog to release pentup energy. Dogs get the zoomies for various reasons:

• They may have an episode if they are highly excited after watching another dog play.

• They may zoom if they have nervous energy after getting through a stressful situation.

• After bathtime, it is common for dogs to embark on a session of the zoomies.

• If the dog hasn't had enough exercise, he may release his pent-up energy through zoomies!

Zoomies

Before zoomies hit, dogs often get a slight glint in their eyes. They may start to play-bow at you or other dogs. They then tend to sprint from one place to another, back and forth or spin in circles until they fall over. While this can be a little alarming to witness, zoomies are actually a normal part of happy dog behaviour. As long as your dog is zooming in a safe enough space, there is nothing to worry about - you can sit back and enjoy the spectacle!

Note: Zoomies are a natural behaviour, but if they happen very frequently, it might be a good idea to consider if your dog is getting enough exercise and if there are other ways you could help him to release some of his pent-up energy.

Controlling zoomies

Zoomies are generally not something you should try to prevent or discourage if your dog is zooming in a safe place. As long as he is in your house or garden and away from small children or elderly family members who his exuberant display could knock over, it should be fine.

If your dog gets the zoomies in a place that is not safe, such as an unfenced park, it is, however, vital that you catch him for his own safety. The most important thing to remember is NEVER to chase a zooming dog. If you chase your dog, he is likely, in his 'zoomy' state, to misinterpret your actions as play. This will encourage more zoomies! Instead of chasing your dog, run away from him and encourage him to follow you in a happy voice. It also helps if you are prepared when you go out and have some high-value treats or toys to encourage him to come in your direction.

Note: Try to avoid your dog zooming on slippery surfaces, like hardwood floors. Slipping and sliding on these surfaces at high speed can result in nasty injuries!

Take home message

Essentially, zoomies are a lot of fun, both for your dog and you as a spectator. Just try to ensure that they only take place in safe places, where he can bounce around to his heart's content without risking injury or harm to others.