How to Calm Down Puppy Zoomies and Establish a Daily Routine

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Posted Oct 9, 2024

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Puppies get zoomies, and it's completely normal. Zoomies are a natural behavior in puppies, often occurring between 8 and 12 weeks old.

Establishing a daily routine can help calm down puppy zoomies. A consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime can help regulate your puppy's energy levels.

Puppies need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to burn off excess energy. This can be a combination of physical activity and mental stimulation.

A tired puppy is a calm puppy, so make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.

What Are Puppy Zoomies?

Puppy zoomies are a joyful release of pent-up energy, typically occurring after a period of confinement or restriction from play. This behavior is a natural expression of your puppy's exuberance and playfulness.

Puppies, especially dogs, love to sprint around the house or yard at full speed, showcasing their excitement and happiness. It's a delightful display that many pet owners find endearing.

Credit: youtube.com, Why do Dogs get Zoomies? || Scientific reason behind zoomies ll Monkoodog

Dogs have been domesticated for around 30,000 years, but their instincts are still intact, and their zoomies are a testament to that. They're just happy to be alive and running free!

Zoomies serve as a means for puppies to expend excess energy, allowing them to express their happiness and contentment. It's a special moment that strengthens the bond between you and your puppy.

Causes and Triggers

Puppies can get the zoomies for a variety of reasons, including excess energy, excitement, and stress. One of the most common causes is simply an excess of energy, especially in puppies or dogs with high energy levels that don't get enough physical exercise or mental stimulation throughout the day.

Bath time, crate time, and playtime can all trigger the zoomies in some dogs. Some dogs may also get the zoomies when they're feeling particularly excited or happy, such as after a fun walk or a tasty meal. Puppies tend to be more energetic and playful than adult dogs, making them more prone to zoomies.

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Here are some common triggers that can lead to zoomies in puppies:

  • Bath time
  • Crate time
  • Play time
  • The arrival of the owner
  • Feeling excited or happy
  • Boredom and lack of exercise

Hormonal surges, particularly during adolescence, can also contribute to the zoomies. This is because pets undergo hormonal changes as they mature, leading to increased energy levels and excitement.

Why Do You Get?

So, you're wondering why you get the zoomies? Bath time can trigger a sudden burst of energy in dogs, making them run around frantically.

Bath time is often a common cause of the zoomies in dogs, so if you notice your furry friend getting excited after a bath, it's not just your imagination.

Crate time can also lead to the zoomies in dogs, possibly due to the confinement and subsequent release of pent-up energy.

Play time is another obvious trigger, as it's a time for dogs to let loose and have fun.

The arrival of the owner can also cause a dog to get the zoomies, possibly due to excitement and attention-seeking behavior.

Some common triggers for the zoomies include:

  • Bath time
  • Crate time
  • Play time
  • The arrival of the owner

What Causes?

Black and White Photo of a Puppy
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Dogs get the zoomies for a variety of reasons, including pent-up energy, excitement, stress, and boredom.

Puppies and high-energy dogs are more prone to zoomies due to excess energy. They may not get enough physical exercise or mental stimulation throughout the day, leading to a burst of activity.

Excitement and happiness can also trigger zoomies. Dogs may get the zoomies after a bath, playtime, or when greeting someone after being alone for a period. It's their way of expressing elation.

Stress can cause zoomies in dogs, too. They may exhibit zoomies as a way to alleviate tension, especially in situations that cause stress, like bath time for some dogs.

Boredom is another common trigger for zoomies in pets, including dogs and cats. Social animals thrive on interaction, play, and mental stimulation, making their need for engagement a fundamental aspect of their well-being.

Some common activities that trigger dog zoomies include baths, praise and attention from their parents, and the arrival of their owner. Dogs may also get the zoomies when they're bored and not getting enough exercise.

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Golden Retriever Puppy
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Hormonal surges, particularly during adolescence, can contribute to zoomies in pets. Environmental changes, such as moving to a new house, can also lead to an increase in stress hormones, causing zoomies.

Here are some common causes of zoomies in dogs and cats:

  • Bath time
  • Crate time
  • Play time
  • The arrival of the owner
  • Boredom and lack of exercise
  • Hormonal surges during adolescence
  • Environmental changes, such as moving to a new house

Timing and Frequency

Puppies often get the zoomies in the morning after a long night of sleep. The excitement of breakfast seems to trigger these sudden bursts of energy.

The edges of the day are a popular time for dogs to have zoomies, with many owners reporting an uptick in the morning and evening.

After a moment of rest, dogs tend to get the zoomies, making mornings and naps great times to catch them in action.

Puppies and young dogs can get the zoomies in the evening, usually as a way to expend their last bit of energy before bedtime.

Managing and Preventing

To manage and prevent puppy zoomies, it's essential to stay calm and assertive, as dogs can pick up on your energy. This can help influence their behavior and prevent aggression.

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Dogs need to burn off excess energy, so increasing exercise and playtime is crucial. A regular walk, run, or playful session in the yard can help reduce sudden bursts of energy. Some high-energy breeds, like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds, require even more exercise.

Here are some tips to safely redirect your dog's zoomies:

  • Use verbal commands like "sit" or "stay" to momentarily pause their zoomies.
  • Offer alternatives like a favorite toy or a game that's safely playable in the current environment.
  • Change environments to a room with more space or steer them away from potential dangers.

By taking these precautions and being proactive, you can create a safer environment for your furry friend to enjoy their energetic moments.

Boost Physical Activity

Boosting physical activity is a crucial aspect of managing and preventing the zoomies in your furry friend. Regular exercise helps burn off excess energy, reducing the likelihood of sudden bursts of energy.

The amount and type of exercise your dog needs will depend on their breed, age, and other factors such as medical history and prior injuries. Consult your veterinarian if you're unsure about your dog's exercise needs.

Physical activity can be as simple as a daily walk, but it's essential to consider hiring a dog walker or engaging in more physically demanding activities like running or obstacle courses. Limiting your dog's exercise routine can lead to pent-up energy and increased zoomies.

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Some dog breeds are more prone to zoomies than others, so it's essential to up their exercise routine accordingly. For example, high-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds require more exercise than others.

Here are some exercise ideas to help your dog burn off excess energy:

  • Regular walks
  • Runs
  • Obstacle courses
  • Playful sessions in the yard
  • Fetch or frisbee in the backyard or at the park

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to exercise. Aim to provide your dog with several opportunities to burn off energy throughout the day, and adjust their exercise routine as needed based on their breed, age, and individual needs.

Preventing Aggression

Staying calm is crucial when dealing with aggressive zoomies. Dogs can pick up on your energy, so it's essential to remain assertive and calm.

Avoid physically restraining your dog during zoomies, as this can escalate aggression or result in injury. Instead, use your voice and body language to guide them.

If your dog's zoomies take an aggressive turn, reach out to your vet ASAP. Whether it's an untreated health issue or something else, it's always best to take precautions before anything devastating happens.

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In many cases, the best action is inaction. Watching from a safe distance ensures you're there to intervene if necessary but also acknowledges your dog's need for these natural bursts of energy.

Here are some tips to help you prevent aggression during zoomies:

  • Provide ample space for your dog to run around freely
  • Choose safe locations for your dog to exercise, avoiding busy areas or places with potential hazards
  • Stay on your feet and be prepared to intervene if your dog is at risk of running into something or harming itself

By following these tips, you can help prevent aggression during zoomies and create a safer environment for your furry friend.

Handling and Safety

Handling puppy zoomies safely is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Ensure your pet has plenty of space to run around freely.

Provide a safe environment by removing breakable items and fragile objects that could be in your pet's path. Consider pet-proofing your space, especially if you have a cat that might knock over items for fun.

To prevent collisions with objects or other pets, choose safe locations for your pet to run around. Guide your pet away from busy areas and select open spaces where the risk of collision is minimized.

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Here are some essential precautions to consider:

  • Provide Ample Space: Ensure your pet has plenty of space to run around freely.
  • Choose Safe Locations: Select open spaces where the risk of collision with objects or other pets is minimized.
  • Anticipate Sudden Stops and Starts: Be prepared for your pet to stop and start suddenly during their energetic escapade.
  • Stay On Your Feet: Keep yourself mobile and ready to intervene if your pet is at risk of running into something or harming itself.
  • Calm Observation: Try to stay calm and let your pet burn off its energy naturally.

How to Handle Safely

Handling zoomies safely is crucial to prevent injuries to your pet and others around it. Ensuring your pet has plenty of space to run around freely is essential, as a leash might not be sufficient during the initial stages of zoomies.

To provide ample space, consider taking your pet to a fenced-in park or yard where they can release energy safely. This will help minimize the risk of collision with objects or other pets.

Anticipate sudden stops and starts, as quick changes in direction are common during zoomies. Stay vigilant to avoid any unexpected obstacles and be prepared to intervene if necessary.

Staying on your feet and keeping yourself mobile allows you to quickly react to any potential dangers. Being physically present also enables you to guide your pet to a safer area if needed.

If your pet is prone to knocking over items, consider removing breakable objects from areas they can access. This will help create a pet-safe environment and prevent any potential hazards.

Brown and White St. Bernard Puppy on Selective Focus Photo
Credit: pexels.com, Brown and White St. Bernard Puppy on Selective Focus Photo

Here are some essential precautions to consider:

  • Provide Ample Space: Ensure your pet has plenty of space to run around freely.
  • Choose Safe Locations: Guide your pet away from busy areas or places with potential hazards.
  • Anticipate Sudden Stops and Starts: Be prepared for your pet to stop and start suddenly during their energetic escapade.
  • Stay On Your Feet: Keep yourself mobile and ready to intervene if your pet is at risk of running into something or harming itself.
  • Calm Observation: Try to stay calm and let your pet burn off its energy naturally, avoiding unnecessary interference unless there is a clear safety concern.

Body Language

Learning your dog's body language is crucial to understanding its emotions and needs. You can observe your dog while it plays to gauge how it's feeling.

Observe your dog's stance to see if it's relaxed or tense. Pay attention to its eyes, ears, and the sounds it makes to understand its emotional state.

If your dog is excited, its body language may include a wagging tail, raised ears, and a bouncy gait. This can be a sign that it's responding well to training sessions.

However, if your dog's excitement turns into overexcitement, its body language may change to include a stiffened stance, wide eyes, and a loud, high-pitched bark. This is a sign that it needs a time-out.

By paying attention to your dog's body language, you can better understand its needs and respond accordingly. This will help you build a stronger bond with your dog and create a safer, more enjoyable environment for both of you.

Training and Routine

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Establishing a daily routine is key to keeping your puppy calm. Consistency is key in keeping your dog calm, and a routine that includes all the important daily practices for your pet is a must.

A healthy, balanced diet, physical exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation are all essential components of a daily routine. This routine should be followed consistently to increase your puppy's sense of security and reduce anxiety.

Regular training sessions and a variety of enrichment activities should be a consistent part of your puppy's daily schedule. This not only reinforces positive behaviors but also provides a structured and predictable environment for your puppy.

Age and Breed Impact

Older dogs, like senior citizens, tend to have less energy and are less likely to have sudden bursts of activity, whereas puppies are likely to experience the zoomies daily or even multiple times a day.

Some breeds, such as hunting dogs like Jack Russell Terriers and work dogs like Australian Shepherds, have more energy and excitability, making them more prone to FRAPs.

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A sleepier breed like a Basset Hound is less likely to have regular zoomies.

Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's overall health, and a dog that is exhausted from daily exercise is less likely to experience a FRAP.

Consult your veterinarian to determine the right exercise needs for your dog, considering factors like breed, age, and medical history.

Practice and Training

Consistency is key when incorporating training and mental stimulation into your pet's routine. Regular training sessions and a variety of enrichment activities should be a consistent part of their daily schedule.

Did you know that 10 minutes of mental stimulation will tire your pet out faster than a 30-minute walk? Providing them with plenty of toys, puzzles, and other forms of enrichment will tire them mentally and physically.

Establishing clear guidelines through training helps shape your pet's behavior and fosters a harmonious relationship between pet and owner. Proper training plays a crucial role in teaching your pet when and where it is acceptable to engage in zoomies.

If this caught your attention, see: Clicker Training for Puppies

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Practicing commands and training can support calm behavior in your dog. A dog that responds to commands is much safer and can experience a wider array of situations comfortably.

Regular exercise can help harness your dog's energy and prevent overly high energy levels. By ensuring you get it tuckered out from a day of play and exercise, you're burning off any excess energy that could translate into anxiety or bad dog behavior later on.

Training your dog to respond to commands can make it easier to snap them out of a case of the zoomies. Don't get angry with your dog if the commands don't work as well during a FRAP – these experiences are highly instinctual and physical.

A different take: Training 2 Puppies at Once

Daily Pet Routine

Maintaining a daily routine for your pet is crucial for their calmness and overall well-being. Consistency is key, and a dog that feels safe is likely to be more relaxed and have less nervous energy.

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A healthy, balanced diet is essential for your pet's daily routine. This includes providing a regular serving of CBD calming chews, which can help with calmness.

Physical exercise, play time, and mental stimulation are also vital components of a daily pet routine. This can include activities like walks, runs, and playtime in the backyard.

Affection and attention from you are also important for your pet's daily routine. Spending quality time with your pet can help strengthen your bond and reduce stress.

A regular sleep schedule is also crucial for your pet's daily routine. This can help regulate their circadian rhythms and ensure they get the rest they need.

Harness the Power of Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is key to harnessed energy, which can help avoid overly high energy and anxiety in dogs. Consistency is key in keeping your dog calm, and a solid daily routine is crucial for this.

A dog that is exhausted from their daily exercise regimen is much less likely to experience a FRAP, or Frenetic Random Activity Period. The amount and type of exercise your dog needs will depend on their breed, age, and other factors.

Four Assorted-color Puppies
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Physical movement is really important for your dog's overall physical and mental health. By ensuring you get it tuckered out from a day of play and exercise, you're burning off any excess energy that could translate into anxiety or bad dog behavior later on.

To burn off excess energy, you can try regular walks, runs, or playful sessions in the yard. If your pet is prone to zoomies, make sure to give them several chances to burn off energy throughout the day.

Here are some options to increase exercise and playtime for your dog:

  • Regular walks
  • Runs
  • Playful sessions in the yard
  • Playing fetch or frisbee in your backyard or at the park
  • Bringing your dog to daycare
  • Having a Pet sitter come by while you are away
  • Having a pet camera to interact with them while you are not home

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calm down a hyper puppy?

To calm a hyper puppy, try increasing exercise, providing massage, or using calming supplements, and consider introducing calming music or clothes to help them relax. Start with small changes to see what works best for your furry friend.

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.

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