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You’ve likely seen your dog chase their tail or spin around in tight circles at one point. These playful and perplexing behaviors beg the question: why do dogs spin circles? While there are several possibilities for circling, the behavior usually comes down to natural instincts, communication, or health and wellness. So why do dogs spin in circles? Continue to read and let’s explore the reasons.
Instincts and Play
Like their wild wolf ancestors, domesticated dogs are predatory. When your pup shakes or tosses their favorite stuffed animal or chases their tail, they’re practicing hunting skills like stalking, pouncing, and biting. Circling dog behavior also taps into herding instincts for certain breeds like Collies and Australian Shepherds.
Dogs with strong hunting or herding backgrounds are more prone to “spinning” because they are wired to chase things that move. Experts theorize that dogs chase their tail simply because it moves. The same goes for canine playmates. Spinning in circles is a way to rev up mayhem with other dogs and invite them to join in on the fun.
Communication
For anxious, fearful, or nervous dogs, spinning in circles may be a coping mechanism or an effort to self-soothe. The repetitive motion helps a dog regulate their emotions and release nervous energy. Circling is also thought to release calming endorphins and lower stress levels.
Some trainers view circling as a mild form of displacement behavior actions that serve as an outlet for conflicted emotions. Spinning could signify a dog is engaged in an internal debate or struggling to decide how to react in a situation that causes anxiety.
Excitement is another trigger for frequent spinning. Dogs will spin as a way to exert building physical and mental energy. This spinning outburst often precedes play sessions, walks, or tasty meals, which tells you the dog is letting off steam in eager anticipation.
Medical Causes
While spinning is normal in healthy puppies and dogs, excessive or sudden circling could point to an underlying medical issue, namely:
- Vestibular disease – spinning and tilting is strongly indicative of “old dog vestibular disease” which stems from imbalance or infections in the ears.
- Giantism or Dwarfism – over or underproduction of growth hormones may interfere with a pup’s coordination, gait and spatial awareness.
- Head trauma or neurodegenerative disease – spinning is a common side effect of cognitive conditions.
- Compulsive disorder – incessant spinning despite intervention can be a sign of anxiety, obsessiveness or compulsion. Consulting a vet is key.
- Vision impairment – dogs with limited vision or blindness may turn in circles while navigating to gain better sensory perception.
If your dog is spinning in circles followed by lethargy, vomiting, lack of appetite or falling down, contact your vet right away as circulation problems, low blood sugar or seizures could be occurring. Sudden, excessive circling should always be evaluated by your veterinarian.
Encouraging and Discouraging Circling
Healthy spinning and tail chasing should not raise concern. It is the normal dog behavior. For example, your dog will move in circles before laying down.
Many veterinarians even consider short spinning spells as beneficial exercise for excitable pups. However, limiting the behavior is wise to avoid chaos, injuries or aggravating a potential medical condition.
If your curious canine begins obsessively spinning, deploy distraction and redirection. Wave toys in front of their face, guide them to a timeout spot or lure them into training sessions for mental stimulation. Appropriate outlets — from puzzle feeders to food toys — can also curb spinning stemming from boredom or anxiety.
As for positional spinning triggers, keep your home quiet, calm and boring to discourage attention-seeking spins. Block access when guests visit to prevent circling from social stress. Offer loads of sensory enrichment too: food puzzles, snuffle mats, chew bones, etc. Support from your veterinarian, a positive reinforcement trainer or an animal behaviorist may also prove useful for obsessive spinning.
Final Words
Pups spin in circles due to instincts, communication, health issues or a blend of factors. Regardless of the root cause restless energy, herding genes, or sensory play occasional spinning is rarely a concern in healthy dogs. Still, attentive pet parents should monitor episodes to ensure they do not intensify in frequency or duration. Consulting your veterinarian is prudent if circling arises alongside other symptoms or becomes obsessive. With care and training guidance, most happy spinners can be kept content even with an occasional case of the zoomies!
