Why Do Dogs Get The Zoomies?

Has your puppy or older dog ever suddenly just start running around the house or yard, being crazy like something was chasing it? You call or yell all you want and the dog ignores you like they can’t hear you and keeps running back and forth, sometimes bouncing off furniture?

They’re officially called Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), but we just call them “zoomies” and they are a natural behavior for dogs.

Why Dogs Get the Zoomies

Zoomies are a natural way for dogs to release built-up energy. Even the calmest dog can get a burst of excitement or tension that needs to come out somehow. After a long nap, a bath, or even after using the bathroom, some dogs feel the urge to let loose. It’s fun to watch the action and cheer them on!

Puppies and young dogs tend to have them more often, but older dogs can zoom, too.   I used to pet sit for an older dog who would poop and then zoom around the yard so I called them poop zoomies!

Your dog has been holding in energy—maybe from being crated or sitting still for too long—and suddenly, that energy has to go somewhere. Running at top speed is their way of blowing off steam. It’s also a sign of pure joy. It’s like us after work or school on a Friday, feeling that sense of freedom for the weekend. 

When to Be Concerned

Most of the time, zoomies are completely normal and nothing to worry about. But if you notice your dog getting zoomies constantly, it could be a sign that they’re not getting enough physical or mental exercise. Dogs need daily outlets to burn energy, and without them, you might see more zooming than usual.

Also, make sure your dog’s zoomies are safe. If they’re racing on hardwood floors, around breakable items, or near stairs, you’ll want to redirect them to a safer space. While zoomies themselves aren’t dangerous, a slippery floor or sharp corner can lead to an accident.

What You Can Do About Zoomies

Dogs are crepuscular creatures-which means they’re the most active at dusk and dawn.  When my dog training clients mention their dog has the zoomies, I ask if it’s around dusk and dawn and they always say yes.

I tell them if they know their dog gets a case of the zoomies around a certain time, to plan ahead. Take them on a walk, have a little training session, or let them do their zoomies outside in a fenced yard or in a safe, open space where they can run to their heart’s content.

Regular exercise and mental enrichment can help, too. Daily walks, play sessions, puzzle toys, and training games all burn energy and keep your dog’s mind engaged. A tired dog is less likely to have uncontrollable bursts of energy indoors.

The Bottom Line

Zoomies are a natural, healthy part of being a dog. They’re a reminder of your pup’s playful spirit and a way for them to express happiness and release energy. As long as your dog is safe and getting enough exercise, there’s no need to worry. So the next time your furry friend rockets around the yard like a racecar, smile and enjoy the show—it’s one of the many ways dogs bring joy and laughter into our lives.

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Beverly Amsler is the owner of The Well-Trained Dog & Pet Care. She has been a professional dog trainer, dog walker, and pet sitter since 2014.  Beverly is a Certified Dog Trainer through the Victoria Stilwell Academy and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International.  She is a member of the Texas Pet Sitters Association and the Association For Professional Dog Training.  Before starting her business, Beverly spent more than 30 years as a journalist for newspapers, magazines, and radio and television stations in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Indiana, and Utah. Learn more about Beverly.