You know when your dog starts dashing around suddenly, bursting with excitement? It’s likely your pup has the zoomies.

 

What Are the Zoomies?

Zoomies is slang for “Frenetic Random Activity Periods,” which is a pretty accurate description. It's when dogs are overtaken by explosive energy, causing them to run around wildly, racing in circles, back and forth or every which way. Dogs often zoom by themselves though some enjoy runs with toys or other pups.

If your dog’s had the zoomies, you’re probably aware that these episodes of sheer, unbridled joy usually last for a few minutes then stop — often as suddenly as they started.

The Physical Signs of Zoomies

Aside from hyperactivity, how can you tell if your dog’s got the zoomies? They’ll often exhibit some physical changes:

·  Flattened ears

·  Playful grin

·  Raised hackles

Next time your pup’s racing around the house at top speed, keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs.

And when your dog’s tired out and ready to refuel, replenish their energy with tasty Jinx kibble.

 

Why Do Dogs Get Zoomies?

Vets and pet behavior experts have a few theories. Here are some of the most common:

Burning Off Excess Energy

Just like humans, dogs can get restless without a release for their pent-up energy. Zoomies are a fun way for pups to let off steam, especially if they’ve been cooped up, crated, or haven’t had a good run in a while.

High-energy breeds and younger dogs often need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. If you’re a dog parent to either (or both) — encourage zoomies at home and on walks, reveling in your pup’s happiness, rewarding them with healthy, tasty treats.

Unbridled Happiness

Speaking of joy, zoomies often happen when your dog’s feeling particularly excited. It’s their impulsive way of showing you they’re thrilled — like when you arrive home or after they’ve had a satisfying play session.

Stress or Overstimulation

In some cases, when your dog feels overwhelmed — possibly by a loud noise, stressful grooming session, or unfamiliar environment — they might respond with a zoomie runaround. 

This uncontrollable need to move around is a positive way for your dog to relieve stress or overstimulation. It can also be helpful to write a list of your pup’s stressors so you can better understand and manage them.   

Bored and Craving Fun

As mentioned, pent-up energy enjoys release. If your dog is crated during the day, you’re probably familiar with the burst of zoomie energy once the crate door opens. This is not only normal, it’s healthy for their body and mind.

As an added reassurance, it’s perfectly fine to crate-train your dog but expect zoomies in return, followed by demands for delicious Jinx treats.

Natural Instinct

Similar to their wolf ancestors, dogs have evolved to run. Zoomies are a remnant of their natural instinct to roam and sprint. 

This normal part of your dog’s psychology shows that he or she is healthy, with natural instinctual urges. Even though they’ve been domesticated, dogs still retain (some of) their wild lineage.

Trying to Bond

If you have more than one pup — or your single dog’s a social butterfly — you’ve probably noticed that zoomies can be contagious. One dog starts zoomin’ and others join in, leading to a communal session of joyful sprints. Added plus: These positive, playful interactions can help reinforce social bonds between dogs.

And the bonding doesn’t end there. Once you’re home from the dog park, it’s time for you & your DFF (dog friend forever) to connect with cuddles and yummy Jinx treats.

Puppy Playfulness

It’s not surprising that dogs and puppies 3-years-and-under are more likely to get the zoomies. They simply have more energy to blow off.

That’s not to say that older dogs are immune to the zoom. Some older pups — even senior dogs — charge happily around the house or yard (every now and then), but zoomie blasts might be fewer and far between as your dog matures.

When do Zoomies Happen?

As zoomies are an excellent way for dogs to release energy, here are some times of day and situations where you’re likely to encounter them:

• First thing in the morning after your dog’s had a good, long rest.

• Later in the day — for dogs confined in a crate or those who haven't been walked in a while.

• Following a stressful situation like being restrained, a bath, grooming session, or a trip to the vet.

• After a poop. Dogs often feel sprightly after doing their business, and they’ll run in circles with ecstatic zoomies.  

We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: Zoomies are a normal, natural dog behavior. Not all pups participate but those who do seem gleeful, because they’re finally letting out all their pent-up energy.

All we want for our dog is their happiness, and a delightful zoomie run, followed by a delicious Jinx meal, is a day well lived.

Are Zoomies Good or Bad?

While zoomies might appear intense, rest assured — they’re a positive sign that your dog’s feeling lively enough to express themself. These spontaneous eruptions of joy are crucial for dogs’ physical fitness & mental health, helping maintain a balanced mood and exhibit fewer behavioral problems.

As positive as dog zoomies are, some of you might be wondering: Are zoomies safe? To ensure your pup avoids injury during these frenetic outbursts, follow our top zoomie safety tips:

Top Zoomie Safety Tips

1.  Whether you’re at home, in the yard, or out at the park —  make sure your pup is in a safe, enclosed space where they can't hurt themself or knock into items. No one wants an injury, however minor, or an object falling on them!

2.  Observing your dog while they’re zooming is also key to keeping them safe. If there are no obstacles in their way, it's fine to let your dog’s zoomies run their course.

3.  If your pet gets zoomies often, maybe consider a more-structured approach to managing their energy levels.

Creating an exercise calendar — or setting up ongoing alerts in your phone — is an awesome way of breaking up days of the week. That way, you and your pup know exactly when it’s time for walks and play. Regular exercise (at least 2x a day) can help your dog stay physically fit, reducing the risk of a zoomie injury.

It's not just exercise pups love on a regular basis, once you get them on a consistent Jinx treat schedule, they might even beg less other times of day.

 

FAQ

Why is my dog biting during zoomies?

• Typically, any biting during zoomies is a form of playful expression, not an act of aggression. It’s all part of the excitement.

• Your dog's arousal levels are heightened during zoomies so they may lose some impulse control, leading to nipping or gentle biting as they zoom past.

• This can be common in puppies who are still learning boundaries as they might not fully understand the difference between appropriate and inappropriate play. But with you as their loving coach, they’ll learn how to stop puppy biting behavior in no time.

Do dogs often have zoomies at night or before bed?

• Yes, it’s common for dogs and puppies to get zoomies at night or before bed, which might seem counterintuitive as it's time to wind down.

• Whether they’re releasing hours of pent-up energy, or burning off a quick burst before bedtime, zoomies are all part of their natural routine.

• As mentioned, puppies have an abundance of energy, so all you young-dog parents can expect evening zoomies.

 Is it normal for dogs to have zoomies after a walk?

• It sure is, especially if your dog’s been on-leash and suddenly finds themself in an open space (like your yard or living room) where they can run freely. 

• Changes in your pup’s environment can also lead to zoomies. New stimulus excites dogs, leading to ecstatic bursts of zoomie fun.

At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love.

 

After every zoomie session, reward your dog and replenish their energy with Jinx Beef Jerky Tenders and nutritionist-approved kibble like our Grain-Free Cage-Free Chicken Dog Food.