Many pet owners may be distressed to see their beloved dog running around erratically only to collapse just as abruptly as the frenzied spell began. The good news is this phenomenon known as zoomies is very common and nothing to worry about.
The proper name for dog and puppy zoomies is 'Frenetic Random Activity Periods' or FRAPs. These periods usually display as sudden bursts of energy where your dog may run around in circles, usually with their backend tucked in, chase their tail and do laps of the house and/or garden.
Fortunately, there is nothing wrong with these pups. Not only are the puppy crazies normal, but you are not alone—most puppies get the puppy crazies–sometimes several times a day. Puppy crazies seem to be worse in the morning and evening, and sometimes after pups are left alone for longer periods.
Puppies typically develop the emotional maturity and temperament of an adult dog between twelve and eighteen months of age, although they may continue to occasionally exhibit puppy behavior like chewing and nipping until they're about two years old.
Over-excitement can happen in your puppy due to a sudden surprise by some new stimulus, getting aroused in an activity, or if they are anxiously anticipating something.
The most challenging time of raising a puppy is the adolescent period. Dogs become “teenagers” and seem to forget everything they have ever been taught. This period is individual to each dog, but it may begin when he's about eight months old and continue until he's two years old.
Just when you may feel like you have hit your stride, the next big “difficult period” shows up! Many owners are totally blindsided by this next phase. It can vary a bit based on each dog, but your puppy likely will hit “adolescence” around 7-10 months, with 8-9 months being the peak described by most owners.
Keep in mind that aggressive and fearful behavior, such as growling, snapping, biting, stiffening, and cowering are not normal behaviors in puppies. A healthy and psychologically sound puppy should be naïve and at least somewhat eager to interact with people and animals.
The “Witching Hour”
Many owners find that 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. bring out the worst in their puppies! If you know that a particular time of day prompts crazy biting, do your best to manage/prevent the behaviour and engage your puppy otherwise.
But are zoomies safe? As long as there are no obstacles to get in the way and harm your dog in the process, Goldman says it's fine to let your dog's zoomies run their course.
What characterizes the following signs and symptoms as being part of the puppy blues is that they begin after bringing home a new puppy or dog. The signs and symptoms of the puppy blues include: Feeling overwhelmed. Feeling anxious, sad, and/or hopeless.
It's difficult to stop dog zoomies, but not impossible.
It's hard to stop a dog mid-zoom, so it is usually easiest to wait out these short-lived actions. You can redirect their motion by running away from them so they chase you to a safer spot if need be. Or, you can throw a toy in the direction you want a dog to go.
Generally, puppies start to calm down when they reach emotional maturity — around 1 year old. However, some dog breeds take longer to reach adulthood and emotional maturity. In those cases, puppies may not mellow out until they hit 18 months to 3 years old.
The adolescent period typically begins around six months of age, and will be over when a dog reaches physical maturity around two to three years old. The most pronounced behavioral issues will be noticed between six to 12 months old.
As puppies age, they grow more independent, and by 6-12 months you may notice your once obedient pup is developing some unwanted behaviors. Don't worry, some simple training tips will help you both get through these growing pains.
From 6 -12 Months
At this age you might see a burst of puppy energy and continued boundary testing. That's why it's important to make sure your puppy still gets plenty of structured play and exercise. Continuing with training and socialization with other dogs is also essential at this age.
The most common aggressive puppy behaviour warning signs include snarling, growling, mounting, snapping, nipping, lip curling, lunging, dominant body language/play, challenging stance, dead-eye stare, aggressive barking, possessiveness, and persistent biting/mouthing.
OK—this one isn't necessarily your fault, but the way you respond to it can make a difference in your dog's behavior. Like humans, dogs go through a rebellious “teenager” phase (around 5 months to 18 months).
Keep in mind though, that it generally takes about three weeks for a dog or puppy to start to feel 'at home' and to show their true nature. This is an activity you should do before you get your dog or puppy home.
1) Border Collie
Border Collies were originally bred as working dogs and certainly have the energy level to prove it! While they make good family pets, make sure to get them exercise.
Puppies are easily overexcited, but things tend to get better as they mature. If you are dealing with a puppy who bites when excited, consider that your puppy may be getting too overstimulated and cranky. Puppies need a lot of sleep and they also need to learn how to regulate their emotions.
Puppy exercises and games can be helpful here, so be sure to learn about them as a way of keeping your dog's energy in check. Puppy hyperactivity tends to be a phase, and they usually grow out of it as time goes by.