“Zoomies” are short bursts of wild running that help a dog release built-up energy, excitement or stress. Vets call them frenetic random activity periods, or FRAPs, and in a healthy dog they are normal and usually last a minute or two. You only need to step in if the zoomies happen in an unsafe place, happen constantly, or come with destructive or frantic behaviour.
One minute your dog is calm. The next, your dog tears around the living room, skids off the couch and races laps of the yard with a wild look on their face. Here is why zoomies happen, when they are perfectly fine, and how to keep them safe and under control.
Why dogs get the zoomies
- Pent-up energy. A dog that spent the day resting while the family worked has energy to burn. Zoomies are the quickest way out.
- Excitement. Family members coming home, visitors arriving or the start of a walk can tip an excited dog into a burst of running.
- Getting Overtired. Just like a small child who missed a nap, an overtired dog can actually get MORE energetic for a brief period. Adrenaline is shooting up to compensate for fatigue, temporarily.
- After the toilet. Plenty of dogs sprint after they relieve themselves outside – it is common and typically harmless.
- Time of day. Evenings bring zoomies in many homes. The house gets busy, energy levels rise.
- Youth. Puppies and young dogs zoom far more often than older dogs, simply because they have more energy and less self-control. They also tire out more easily (see “Getting Overtired” above)
Are zoomies normal?
Yes, for most dogs. A short burst of running, a play bow and a happy face all point to a dog having fun. Zoomies often end with a flop on the floor and some heavy panting, and then your dog settles.
Zoomies become a training topic when they happen several times a day, last a long time, end in mouthing or jumping on people, or come with chewing and destruction. That pattern usually points to a dog that needs more structure, more exercise or more mental work, or a dog that feels anxious. Our post on why dogs destroy things covers the overlap.
How to keep zoomies safe
- Clear the space. Move fragile items, close off stairs and keep small children out of the path while your dog runs.
- Watch the floors. Hard floors are slippery. A rug runner or a run on the grass protects your dog’s joints.
- Stay away from roads. A zooming dog does not think about traffic. Make sure the yard is fully secure before zoomie time.
- Do not chase. Running after your dog turns zoomies into a game of keep away, and the burst lasts longer.
- Stay calm and wait. Most zoomies end on their own within a couple of minutes. Shouting only adds excitement.
How to reduce zoomies at the wrong moments
- Meet your dog’s exercise needs. Daily walks and play burn off some energy that otherwise comes out in bursts. Our guide to how much exercise a puppy needs helps with younger dogs.
- Add brain work. Sniffing games, food puzzles and short training sessions tire a dog out as much as a run. See our ideas for keeping your dog entertained indoors.
- Plan for the trigger. If your dog zooms after a bath, towel off in a space where running is safe. If your dog zooms every evening, schedule a play session just before that time.
- Keep greetings calm. Low-key arrivals at the door stop the excitement from building into a burst. Our post on dogs who jump on everyone explains how.
Frequently asked questions
How long do zoomies last?
Usually a minute or two, sometimes up to five. If your dog keeps going much longer or cannot settle afterwards – consult your trainer.
Do dogs grow out of the zoomies?
Most dogs zoom less as they mature, but many adult and even senior dogs still enjoy the occasional burst. That is perfectly normal.
Should you stop your dog from getting the zoomies?
Not if your dog is safe and having fun. Simply move them somewhere appropriate and let the burst run its course. Focus on preventing zoomies at unsafe times rather than stopping them altogether.
When should you talk to a professional?
If an older dog suddenly starts racing around, or the running looks frantic, involves spinning or chasing their tail, or comes with other changes in behaviour, check with your vet to rule out a health cause, and a behavioural trainer to assess the training needs.
Need a hand?
A little zooming is a happy dog letting off steam. If the zoomies end in nipping, jumping or chaos every evening, our trainers can help. We come to your home, look at your dog’s routine and teach the whole family how to build a calmer household, all backed by our Life Of Dog Support Guarantee. Find your local Bark Busters trainer.
Free guide: Looking for ways to burn off energy indoors? Download our Indoor Games to Play with Your Dog guide (PDF) for easy games that tire your dog out and calm the evening rush. You can find more handouts on our Free Dog Training Resources page.
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