Why Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

Zoomies are an interesting phenomenon. One minute, your dog seems cool and collected, and the next, they’re sprinting laps around the house and parkour-ing off the furniture at light speed. These energy bursts can strike at any time, giving nearby humans only mere seconds to avoid a (usually comical) collision.

Known officially as frenetic random activity periods or FRAPs, zoomies are built into your pup’s DNA. It might look a little unhinged, but this normal dog behavior is perfectly healthy. Here’s a look at common reasons why dogs get the zoomies.

What are zoomies?

Zoomies, or FRAPs, are short, intense blasts of energy that occur spontaneously. During a zoomie episode, dogs become wide-eyed before they crouch down in a play bow and begin running and jumping at full speed. They might spin in tight circles, bounce off the couch, do laps around the yard, or slide wildly across slippery floors.

Most dogs get zoomies, but they are more common in young dogs and high-energy breeds. The episodes help burn off pent-up energy and provide an emotional release after a trigger event that causes stress, excitement, or relief.

Post-bath zoomies

Few things are as predictable as the bath time zoom. A few reasons why post-bath zoomies are so common may include:

• Overstimulation — The bathing process can be overwhelming, especially for anxious dogs. Zoomies help release that nervous energy. Even dogs who appear calm in the tub like to celebrate once bath time is complete.
• Scent changes — After a bath, your dog has a new scent, which is an odd sensation for a creature who relies on their strong sense of smell. Zoomies might be an attempt to restore their normal smell.
• Wet fur — Most dogs like to dry off when they’re wet because their fur can feel heavy, clingy, or cold. A good zoom, often combined with rolling or rubbing their bodies on the floor or furniture, can fluff up the coat and release energy at the same time.

Post-poop zoomies

Zooming after pooping might seem strange, but it’s surprisingly common. While scientists don’t know the exact reasons why this occurs, some plausible possibilities have been proposed. Here’s what may be behind this phenomenon:

• Relief — Pooping is a moment of release that, for some dogs, leads to a spontaneous burst of energy.
• Nerve stimulation — Pooping can stimulate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem to the abdomen. Activation can cause a slight drop in blood pressure and heart rate, and may signal the release of neurotransmitters, all of which can lead to feelings of well-being and celebratory zoomies.
• Instinct — When dogs poop, they leave behind a trail of scents and pheromones that send messages to other dogs who smell them. Something about your dog’s own scent or messages left behind by other dogs in the area might trigger an excited zoom session.

What else causes zoomies?

While post-bath zoomies and poop zoomies are common experiences for dog owners, the phenomenon can strike at any time. The technical term for zoomies—frenetic random activity periods—is so-named for a reason.

Here are some other possible triggers:

• Play — Sometimes, dogs get so excited during playtime that they can’t contain themselves, and zoomies result. If you want to encourage your dog to zoom, riling them up with a toy, a high-pitched voice, or roughhousing often does the job.
• Excess energy — High-energy dogs without an outlet to run or otherwise burn energy during the day can erupt into zoomies when their people come home. The pent-up energy needs to be released, and FRAPs fit the bill.
• Just because — Sometimes, there’s no apparent reason for zoomies. They might happen when you least expect them, or when your pup has a strong positive reaction to an emotion or event.

Whether triggered by excitement, frustration, or something in between, zoomies help dogs let out their physical and emotional energy in a fun, healthy, and decidedly entertaining way.

Should you worry about zoomies?

For all their chaos, zoomies are typically nothing to worry about. Occasionally, they might indicate your dog is stressed, overstimulated, or physically uncomfortable. If FRAPs happen in conjunction with signs of stress or pain, such as trembling, whining, or avoiding eye contact, consider the situational context. Is something happening around you that’s making your dog uncomfortable?

The vast majority of the time, zoomies are perfectly normal and safe. However, sudden movements and parkour routines can lead to spectacular wipeouts, especially on slippery floors. Hardwood and tile can create a hazardous situation, leading to collisions with walls, furniture, or unsuspecting family members.

Zoomies can also be hard on your home. Carpets wear out, floors get scratched, and furniture gets cracked. Sometimes, large and giant breeds can topple drinks and wall décor from shaking the floor or walls as they run by.

Most dog owners know that home wear and tear is par for the course in pet ownership, but it’s still a good idea to ensure sanctioned zooming zones are free of valuables.

Creating a safe space for zooming

To help reduce the chances of a slip or fall, prevent injuries like fractures or sprains (to you or your dog), protect your home from accidents, and keep your dog in a safe area, try the following additional zoom-friendly tips:

• Lay down non-slip mats in the most frequently trafficked dog runways in the home
• Block off tight corners or slippery floors with a pet gate when you anticipate zooms
• Dry your dog’s fur and feet after a bath before setting them loose to run
• Protect beds or couches in the zooming zone with pet covers or blankets
• Keep your dog on a leash after pooping until you reach a safe area
• Learn the signs of an impending zoom specific to your dog so you can protect your knees and shins
• Avoid open, unfenced areas if your dog likes to zoom outdoors

Embracing the zooms

Whatever causes your pet’s frenetic activity celebrations, dog zoomies are one of the most entertaining parts of pet parenthood. In a safe environment where your pup feels happy and relaxed, zoomies are usually harmless and fun expressions of pure joy or a way to burn off excess energy.

Dogs require high-quality nutrition to fuel safe zoomies and play. JustFoodForDogs offers a variety of dog food types made from fresh, human-grade ingredients designed to support optimal energy levels, weight management, joint health, and overall well-being.

Contact us for help choosing a fresh, frozen, shelf-stable, prescription, or fully custom diet that meets your unique dog’s needs and keeps them zooming well into their senior years.

This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.

Citations

Pilcher, Helen. 2024. “The (Very Adorable) Reasons Cats Get the Zoomies after Pooping.” BBC Science Focus Magazine. December 13, 2024. https://www.sciencefocus.com/nature/cat-zoomies-pooping.

‌“What Are Zoomies?” 2021. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. June 23, 2021. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/what-are-zoomies.

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