If you have ever watched a puppy go from sound asleep to a full sprint around the living room in about two seconds, you have seen the zoomies. Ears flat, back end tucked, eyes a little wild. It looks like something is wrong. It isn’t. This is one of the most normal things a puppy does.
Vets have a fancier name for it, frenetic random activity periods, but “zoomies” says it better. It’s a burst of pent-up energy that has to go somewhere. Puppies run on a short fuse, and when the tank gets too full, out it comes.
When they usually happen
You’ll start to notice a pattern. Zoomies tend to show up:
- Right after a bath or a good towel rub
- When they first come out of the crate
- In the evening, when the whole house gets a little louder
- After a potty trip, once they are back inside
- When you get home and they are thrilled to see you
Our Goldendoodles are no different. Luna and Macie are grown and still get them now and then, usually after a bath or when the kids start running through the house. The puppies just do it with a lot less dignity.
What to do while it’s happening
Mostly, get out of the way. Seriously. Make sure the path is clear of anything breakable or slippery, and let them run it out. Hardwood floors with socks-on-ice puppy paws can end badly, so if you can steer them to a rug or the yard, do that.
Don’t chase. Chasing turns it into a game and winds them up more. If you need them to stop, walk away or turn sideways and call them in a happy voice. When they come to you, reward them with a treat or some calm petting. They learn that coming back is worth it.
And don’t scold. They aren’t being bad. They’re being puppies.
Cutting down on the wild ones
If the zoomies feel nonstop, the fix is usually more outlet earlier in the day. A walk, a little sniffing time, a short game of fetch or tug before the evening rush. A puppy with a good outlet has less to burn off at 9pm. Rest matters too. An overtired puppy often gets more wild, not less, so make sure naps are actually happening.
When to ask your vet
Zoomies on their own are healthy. If your puppy seems frantic all the time, can’t settle even when tired, or the running comes with yelping, limping, or odd behavior, give your vet a call. That’s rare, but it’s worth a quick check.
For almost every family, though, the answer is simple. Clear the floor, let them go, and enjoy the show. It’s one of the funniest parts of having a puppy.
Puppy Pals Team