Why Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

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Written by Tad Malone

Published: January 14, 2025

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Cute miniature pinscher dog running and jumping in the grass
Olena Bondarenko/iStock via Getty Images

Any dog owner knows that their furry companions can exhibit some peculiar behavior. Dogs have big and unique personalities that express themselves through sometimes strange actions. Be it sleeping in impossible positions, attempting to sing along to the radio, or even chasing their own tails, dogs certainly have character.

One of the strangest behaviors exhibited by dogs is known as the zoomies. Out of nowhere, your dog may take off at blinding speeds, running back and forth or in circles for seemingly no reason. That burst of energy finishes as soon as it starts, leaving you mystified and none the wiser. But what are zoomies, really? Watch the video above, and then we will explore the topic further.

What are the Zoomies?

A two-year-old Airedale Terrier dog runs free

The first time your dog gets a case of the zoomies, you’re left wondering why. As if possessed by a spirit, your dog suddenly jumps up and runs as fast as it can through your house or yard. Sometimes, dogs will vocalize during their impromptu track and field competitions, barking or growling as they run.

The more scientifically minded call this behavior Frenetic Random Activity Period or FRAPs. Typically, most dogs hunch over and run at full speeds when they get the zoomies, or FRAPs. They might even throw in some spins and leaps, which in other contexts can be considered an invitation to play.

In truth, even experts aren’t entirely sure why dogs get the zoomies. As far as they can tell, dogs exhibit this behavior as a self-soothing mechanism. Be it a release of pent-up energy, excitement, or stress, the zoomies seem to act like a pressure valve being released for the amped-up pup. That said, there are several more distinct reasons why your dog begins randomly sprinting. Let’s explore them.

Playfulness and Excitement

Catahoula Leopard Dog puppy playing with stick at beach

Your dog’s case of the zoomies may come down to pure excitement. When dogs find themselves in moments of high arousal, the zoomies may appear. Seeing a leash and anticipating a walk, or even realizing you’ve finally come home after a long day of work can trigger a case of FRAPs. They may be simply too excited and are attempting to calm themselves down just enough to enjoy their favorite activity.

Other times, pure playfulness can trigger the zoomies. When a game of fetch or keep-away is too fun, your dog struggles to contain its happiness. Let’s say you have been playing tug-of-war with your dog for a while and are considering wrapping it up. Your dog may enter into zoomie mode to keep the good times going, influencing you to continue playing. It may also speak to your dog’s competitive streak. If you are bringing their food bowl inside before they are finished with it, they may start zooming to force your hand. (For other odd dog behaviors, discover 6 reasons why your dog keeps licking the couch.)

Grooming and Daily Cycles

Dog Grooming

Many dogs get the zoomies right after their bathtime or grooming session. You may like having your dog clean, but some dogs do not enjoy bath time. The water and soap can cause discomfort, and the grooming session may test your dog’s patience. Once it’s over, dogs will shake off the water and attempt to quell the stress by running at breakneck speeds. Perhaps they are simply overstimulated by the wetness of their fur and the shampoo smell all over them.

Much like us, dogs are also affected by the passage of time. As many dog owners will note, dogs seem to have something of a “witching hour” where they exhibit strange, manic behaviors. Usually, this hour falls between 5 p.m. and 8 pm. During this period, dogs may get the zoomies. It could be a final release of energy before the wind-down period of the day. If not, they may be excited about their dinner or you coming home from work.

Stress and Lack of Exercise

Dog waiting at the window

While the zoomies are pretty normal for dogs, the reason they start running might not be good. All dogs, particularly puppies, need ample amounts of exercise. This keeps their brain and body healthy and happy. When dogs fail to get enough exercise, they may find the middle ground by getting the zoomies. You will know if the zoomies spring from a lack of exercise because your dog may nip at you or bark in the process.

Similarly, dogs will get the zoomies when they are frustrated, tense, stressed, or paradoxically, exhausted. These frenetic random activity periods aren’t always for fun. Dogs need a way to release pent-up stress. If they start exhibiting Zoomie behavior before they enter the veterinarian’s exam room, they are probably attempting to quell their fear and tension. For puppies, the zoomies may manifest when they are too tired but simply can’t stop moving.

Ultimately, the zoomies are pretty normal. It may be goofy, but it’s very normal dog behavior in the grand scheme of things. Just be sure they have ample space to freak out, so they aren’t knocking over furniture or hurting themselves in the process. (For more information on this topic, explore your dog’s hyper run.)


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