Reason dogs get the 'zoomies' according to vet – and what triggers them
Many owners wonder why their dog suddenly gets the zoomies, especially when nothing particularly exciting has happened in the moments leading up to it.
There's something incredibly endearing about watching your dog dart around the living room in a fit of joy.
However, many pet owners are left puzzled when their dog suddenly gets the 'zoomies' (unexpected bouts of high-energy and erratic running), particularly when nothing notably exciting has preceded it.
Veterinary expert Alex Crow, known on social media as @alex_thevet, took to TikTok to shed light on why pets experience these sudden energy surges and what they signify.
The animal specialist explained: "Does your dog get the zoomies? If your dog has ever randomly started sprinting around the house or garden then that's what we call the zoomies, or FRAPS (Frenetic Random Activity Periods)!".
"This is completely normal and typically happens when dogs have excess energy to burn, after they've been bathed, during play, or when they're just super excited.
@alex_thevet Does your dog get the zoomies? If your dog has ever randomly started sprinting around the house or garden then that's what we call the zoomies, or FRAPS (Frenetic Random Activity Periods)! This is completely normal and typically happens when dogs have excess energy to burn, after they've been bathed, during play, or when they're just super excited. It's a natural and healthy way for them to release pent-up energy. My own dog Maggie always does them after she's been showered with the hosepipe. #dogzoomies #zoomies #dogbehaviour #funnydogbehaviour #zoomiesfordays #vetadvice ♬ original sound - Dr Alex Crow
"It's a natural and healthy way for them to release pent-up energy. My own dog Maggie always does them after she's been showered with the hosepipe."
Dr Pamela J. Perry, a behaviour resident at the College of Veterinary Medicine, further elaborated on this phenomenon, stating: "There is no known specific cause of FRAPs in dogs."
"However, they appear to be a way to release pent-up energy, or perhaps, to alleviate stress.
"A dog who has been home alone all day with nothing to do may feel the need to zoom around the house or yard to expend some of that energy and get some relief from hours of under-stimulation."
She added: "FRAPs also can occur whenever a dog becomes very excited (e.g., when an owner returns after a long absence).
"If your dog exhibits zoomies frequently or at inopportune times (such as when you are asleep), they may be telling you that they need more exercise and mental stimulation. Otherwise, enjoy the adorable antics while they last.
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"Although FRAPs are normal, a dog zooming around the house or yard may be in danger of injuring themselves (or breaking something). Owners should keep zooming dogs away from stairs, slippery floors, obstacles and the road.
"However, if a dog zooming around the house or yard appears in pain, frightened or anxious, then the owner should investigate what caused the distress by seeking veterinary help."
Social media users have shared their own experiences, with one commenting: "Mine does it when we say 'bed time' then he runs all round the place crashing into the sofa."
Another remarked: "I thought zoomies was something dogs did because they are happy."
A third shared: "One of my dog's has them after a bath and they all do it when they're initiating play."
And yet another user noted: "My Jack Russell spins round on the spot after anything she doesn't like such as having her nails clipped or taking medication!".
Meanwhile, another individual commented: "My dog gets the zoomies after a bath every time. He won't even give me time to dry him he just takes off."
