Sackman compares it to something many humans can relate to.

A surplus of energy, accumulated and then leg go in one big rush is another likely cause. If a dog has put up with a less than desirable experience-such as a bath, a vet visit or a day alone with minimal stimulation-FRAPs provide a way for that dog to expend nervous energy and get some relief. Dog zoomies are both a physical and mental action, and are often a way to relieve stress, says Dr. “Sometimes they can be triggered by watching other pets, children, or people engage in high-energy, playful behavior,” says Dr. Patrick Mahaney, including when a pet parent comes home after a long period away, when a new canine or human friend comes over, or after an event like a visit to the dog park, or a trip to the veterinarian or groomer. “They can happen anytime a pooch is very excited,” says Los Angeles-based veterinarian Dr. So why do dogs get the zoomies? While it’s not known exactly why dogs get zoomies, experts have a number of possible explanations. ”I think most people would see it as a playful and positive energy, but evaluate it situationally.” Causes of Dog Zoomies “Wild energy with running can have a lot of different instigators,” she says. Jill Sackman, DVM, DACVB, owner of Animal Behavior Consultants of Michigan, who points out the importance of looking at what was going on beforehand. An episode of this dog behavior is typically described as a wild run that seemingly comes out of nowhere and lasts for a few minutes at most.Ī dog having zoomies is like a wind-up toy that was wound to the max, says Dr. Rachel Barrack of New York City’s Animal Acupuncture. “FRAPs are a totally normal release of pent up energy,” says Dr. The Lowdown on Dog Zoomiesĭog zoomies are also known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAPS, which is almost as cool a name as dog zoomies. Here’s what you need to know about dog zoomies. But dog zoomies can cause problems if the fits happen at a less than ideal time, say when your pup is off leash or in the same room as your precious china collection. Why do dogs get zoomies and is it a cause for concern? For the most part a dog having zoomies is a completely normal-and highly entertaining-part of life with a dog. Most pet parents refer to these crazy bursts of energy as “dog zoomies.” Your mild-mannered pup is replaced by a high-octane speed racer who runs around the home, darting back and forth, and, it seems, having a great time.

Every dog parent has experienced it: that moment when your dog suddenly decides to go on a sprinting spree.

Fraps dogs