What Are Dog Zoomies – Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP)

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If you have ever seen your dog tucking its back end low and bolting around in circles with a gleeful expression in an explosion of energy, that’s the zoomies! Zoomies are also known as ‘FRAP’ – Frenetic Random Activity Period. As well as ‘midnight crazies’, ‘figure 8’, and ‘scrumbling’.

FRAP, or zoomies, are when your dog has a release of excess energy to get rid of. It usually involves the dog tucking its back end low, dashing around in circles, and looking ecstatically happy. It may also involve your dog chasing its tail.

What are dog zoomies? Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP) written in white. there are 2 dogs running

What Causes Dog Zoomies

Zoomies have no definitive cause; however, we know the dog has a build-up of excess energy and needs to release it. Some potential reasons for Zoomies are:

  • Your dog is happy that you are home.
  • Your dog has been in a confined space for a long time.
  • Your dog is experiencing something unexpected and is happy about it.
  • Your dog has gone to poo.
  • Your dog hasn’t had enough physical or mental stimulation during the day.
  • Your dog has been in an uncomfortable or stressful situation.

It’s more common to see puppies and younger dogs having zoomies simply because they have more energy than older dogs. Zoomies are common for younger dogs first thing in the morning as they have rested and are ready to go!

My dog is 6 ½ years old and will still have zoomies occasionally. She has zoomies if my husband or children unexpectedly meet up with us during our walk. She will have zoomies if she rolls in fresh-cut grass or something disgustingly pungent! Luna has also been known to have a brief zoomie after a big poo!

Are Dog Zoomies A Cause For Concern

FRAPping is a normal dog behavior where the dog releases a build-up of excess energy. To know if your dog’s zoomies are a cause for concern, you need to track when your dog has them.

For example, if your dog has zoomies regularly at bedtime, there is a good chance that your dog needs more exercise and mental stimulation during the day. Or, your dog may have zoomies after its bath because it doesn’t enjoy the experience. These would be normal dog behaviors triggering zoomies.

However, if your dog doesn’t seem to have a specific trigger for its zoomies and seems to chase its tail or shadows often, it would be best to have them checked over by a vet, who may recommend a reputable behaviorist.

Are Dog Zoomies Safe

Normal zoomies are a perfectly natural way for dogs to release pent-up energy. They are safe as long as there are no obstacles for your dog to hurt itself. And if there is no one at risk of being bowled over!

I used to walk a Great Dane who would get zoomies in smaller bowl-shaped sand dunes, and it was hilarious and lethal simultaneously! Humans and dogs alike would clear the area quickly when he got the crazy look in his eyes! Usually, a gentle giant, he would get crazy eyes and then start bounding around, and everyone would get out of his way quickly!

FAQs About Dog Zoomies

What are dog zoomies?

Dog zoomies or FRAP (Frenetic Random Activity Period) is an explosion of excess energy your dog releases. Typically expressed by your dog tucking its back end low, running around in circles, and looking very happy.

What causes dog zoomies?

There is no definitive cause for dog zoomies. Situations that cause your dog to build up energy and then need to release it. Such as being happy or being released after being in a crate for a long time; not getting enough exercise or mental stimulation; or after a stressful situation.

Are dog zoomies safe?

Dog zoomies are a normal behavior used to release pent-up excess energy. Zoomies are safe if there are no obstacles for your dog to run into and no one to get knocked over.

Are dog zoomies ever a cause for concern?

Generally, dog zoomies are not a cause for concern. However, you should consult a vet if your dog experiences zoomies and chases its tail or shadows frequently.

Final Thoughts

I love seeing my dog getting zoomies; we call it her happy husky dance. The look of pure ecstasy on her face is priceless. I would say stand clear and enjoy the Zoomie show! Just make sure that there’s nothing breakable in the way!

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