To calm a dog's zoomies, remain calm yourself, redirect their energy with a puzzle toy or chew, provide ample preventative exercise and mental stimulation daily, and establish a calming routine with soft music or a quiet space to reduce overstimulation and release pent-up energy. Avoid chasing them, as this encourages the behavior; instead, use commands like "sit" or "stay" to break the cycle and guide them to a calm activity.
They're just doing what comes naturally and won't understand why you're upset. Instead, have a toy handy and focus their attention back to you. You can keep their attention and acceptably work off that excited energy until they're ready to calm down and remember to reward that calm behavior as it's happening as well.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, representing 3 days (overwhelmed/hiding), 3 weeks (settling in/testing boundaries), and 3 months (feeling at home/bonding) to help owners manage expectations and provide patience, routine, and a calm environment, understanding that anxiety is normal as they decompress from a stressful past. It's a framework for recognizing stress and fostering trust, not a rigid timeline, but it helps owners understand why a new dog might seem timid or act out initially.
Zoomies are absolutely normal. Not only are zoomies normal, but they even have an official scientific name - Frenetic Random Activities Periods (FRAPs). Almost all dogs get the zoomies at some time or other. They'll happen most often in puppies and young dogs, but age is no barrier to zoomies (joints permitting).
If their hyperactivity isn't cutting into your day, let their personalities flourish.
The "10 10 10 rule" for dogs refers to two main concepts: a potty training method for puppies (10 mins outside, 10 ft space, 10 mins supervision/reward) and the 80/10/10 guideline for raw feeding (80% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ), both offering structure for training or diet. Another interpretation is the 10% rule for treats, limiting them to 10% of daily calories to maintain a balanced diet, ensuring most nutrition comes from complete dog food.
If you're trying to figure out how to calm your hyperactive dog, you should prioritize daily positive reinforcement training, routines, and mental stimulation through enrichment toys, Grottini says. Keep their age in mind, too.
Adolescence marks the change from being a puppy to becoming an adult. In dogs, it can start any time between six and 12 months and can end between 18 and 24 months. During this time, there are dramatic hormonal changes and a reorganisation of the brain.
Again, while the zoomies are a natural and healthy expression of a dog's pent-up energy, there are scenarios where you may need to step in for the safety of your dog and others. It's important to distinguish between stopping and safely redirecting their energy.
Breed Differences: While all dogs can get zoomies, some breeds are more prone to this behavior than others. High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, and Labrador Retrievers often exhibit more frequent and intense zoomies.
The most commonly surrendered dog type is the "pit bull type" (including mixes), often due to negative stereotypes, breed-specific legislation, and high energy levels, followed by other popular breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, and Labrador Retrievers that may not fit owner lifestyles. Breeds like Staffordshire Bull Terriers (especially mixes) also top surrender lists in some regions like Australia.
Stick to a routine
Schedule your dog's meals, walks, play time and training time so that they know when to expect these activities throughout the day. You can also make rest time part of your regular routine. For example, put your dog in their crate every night while the family eats dinner, then let them back out.
Keep introductions short by following the “three second rule”; count to three as the dogs sniff each other, say thanks or nice to meet you to the owner, and then excitedly call your dog away and continue your walk.
Signs your dog might be anxious
"Red Flags":
This is especially problematic if it is associated with growling, stiffening of body postures, or a snarling display of teeth. These behaviors indicate fear or pain and should be evaluated to make sure there is not a major underlying problem.
Aggressive dog zoomies
Again this is common and nothing to be too worried about, but you will want to try and redirect your puppy's energy elsewhere. Try using a favourite toy to engage in a game of tug of war to refocus his energy or attach a short lead to maintain better control during these spells.
Dogs say "sorry" through submissive body language like tucking their tail, lowering their head, making "puppy eyes," licking, and rolling onto their backs to show they're not a threat, which are appeasement signals to diffuse tension after a conflict or misbehavior, often combined with whining or approaching and retreating. They recognize when their human (or another dog) is upset and use these signs to seek forgiveness, though it's more about reducing stress than human-like guilt.
Your dog isn't crazy, they're just having fun
Cat zoomies at night can be reduced with play sessions, but the best thing you can do is to give your cat access to an outdoor space so they can move about a bit more and get plenty of exercise. Feed your cat smaller meals at multiple times throughout the day, rather than one big meal.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
A Study Found These Are the Best & Worst Behaved Dog Breeds A study looked at dog owners' Instagram posts to figure out the best and worst-behaved dog breeds. Fluffy white Japanese Spitz dogs are the naughtiest. And a half-Chihuahua, half-Pug breed called Chugs also ranked low.
Dog breeds classed as being particularly high-energy include:
To say "I love you" in dog language, use soft eye contact, raise your eyebrows, give gentle massages (especially ears), lean into them, and engage in play or shared activities like walks, which build trust and affection through shared experiences and physical connection, releasing oxytocin for both of you.
In conclusion, dogs are sensitive creatures that can remember and react to raised voices. While they don't hold grudges, repeated negative experiences can impact their behavior and emotional well-being. Understanding your dog's emotional states and body language is crucial for building a strong and loving relationship.