Dogs are fascinating creatures, full of curious habits that leave us scratching our heads (and often laughing). From stares, zoomies and tail-chasing, to joining you in the bathroom, our furry friends are a melting pot of instinct, emotion and personality. We have explored the reasons behind some of your dog’s strangest behaviours and dived into what’s going on in those furry little minds.
1. Why does my dog stare at me?
Have you ever been going about your day, only to feel the unmistakable sensation of eyes on you? That eerie feeling that someone’s watching? Well, if you’re a dog owner, chances are—it’s true! Dogs often fix their gaze on their owners for a variety of reasons. They might associate you with treats, playtime or affection, eagerly waiting for their next dose of love and fun. But their stares aren’t just about snacks and cuddles; they’re also deeply rooted in the emotional bond they share with you. Dogs look to their owners for security, especially in vulnerable moments, like when they’re relieving themselves. Ever notice your pup locking eyes with you during bathroom breaks? That’s their way of saying, “I trust you to have my back.” And in return, don’t be surprised if they keep an eye on you too when you’re in the bathroom.
2. Why does my dog eat weird things?
Ever caught your dog munching on something utterly bizarre? Whether they’ve tucked into some grass, nibbled a bit of paper, or even decided that their poo would be a delicious snack, there’s usually a reason behind these peculiar eating habits. Sometimes, dogs turn to unusual snacks out of anxiety; after all, it’s not just us humans who resort to stress-eating! Other times, it’s a case of attention-seeking mischief. If they’ve figured out that their “meal choice” gets a reaction from you, they might double down just to keep the spotlight on them. Grass-eating, however, often points to a nutritional deficiency; your dog could be seeking extra fibre or missing key nutrients in their diet. To curb this habit, consider adding more fibre-rich vegetables to their meals, offering a healthy alternative to their grassy garnish. By addressing the root of their behaviour, you can help satisfy their needs and keep their snacking habits a little less… puzzling!
3. Why does my dog sit on my feet?
Is it even possible to go about your day without your dog turning your feet into their personal resting spot? Probably not! When you’re standing, your dog often chooses to plop down on your feet, making even simple tasks a bit trickier. While it might feel inconvenient, this behaviour is actually their way of staying as close to you as physically possible when you’re on the move. Dogs share a deep bond with their owners, and that love drives many of their actions. Sitting on your feet gives your pup a sense of security, comfort, and connection. To them, it’s like being wrapped in a warm, familiar blanket. So, while it might momentarily slow you down, it’s a sign of trust and affection that means the world to your furry friend.
4. Why does my dog sniff other dogs’ bums?
Dogs have their own fascinating way of saying hello, and a warm canine greeting can take many forms; barking, licking, wagging tails, and even sniffing each other’s behinds! While humans prefer a handshake or a wave to make introductions, dogs rely on their incredible sense of smell to gather essential information. When two dogs meet, they’re not just being curious or playful, they’re conducting a thorough investigation. This behaviour stems from their advanced olfactory system, which is up to 10,000 times more sensitive than a human’s. By sniffing each other’s rear ends, dogs can learn an astonishing amount about one another. A quick sniff can reveal details such as gender, age, mood, and even the reproductive status of the other dog. This information helps dogs understand whether the new acquaintance is a friend, a potential mate, or a dog to approach with caution.
5. Why does my dog get the zoomies?
Dog parents are often all too familiar with the whirlwind phenomenon known as “zoomies.” One moment, your home is calm and quiet, and the next, it transforms into a high-speed racetrack as your pooch darts around like an Olympic sprinter. While these sudden bursts of energy might seem chaotic, they’re perfectly normal. Officially known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), zoomies are brief but intense episodes of repetitive energy release that typically leave both dogs and their humans a little breathless. Zoomies are a way for dogs to release pent-up energy, these bursts usually don’t last long, but they serve an important purpose: helping dogs blow off steam and reset. Common triggers for zoomies include specific moments in a dog’s routine, like right before bedtime when they’re gearing up to fully relax, after a bath when they’ve been contained or feel refreshed, or after eating, especially for food-motivated dogs who find mealtime exciting. When zoomies strike, the best thing you can do is give your dog space to safely let loose.
6. Why does my dog chase their tail?
Dogs can transform into a spinning blur of fur when chasing their tails, zipping around in endless circles. While this behaviour can look amusing or playful, it actually serves a variety of purposes, ranging from harmless fun to signalling potential concerns. Dogs might chase their tails out of boredom, excitement, or simply as a way to burn off some excess energy. For many pups, it’s a form of self-entertainment, offering both mental and physical stimulation when they’re feeling restless or understimulated. However, in some cases, it may point to underlying issues. Fleas are a common culprit, as the persistent itchiness can lead a dog to focus on their tail in an attempt to find relief. Other times, tail-chasing can indicate an injury or irritation. If your dog seems overly fixated on this behaviour or is chasing their tail excessively, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Tail-chasing could be a sign of an underlying medical problem, like an infection, injury, or neurological issue, which needs to be addressed.
7. Why does my dog roll in dirt?
Does your dog love nothing more than to dive into mud, roll in dirt, and bring the outdoors inside, leaving a trail of paw prints through your home? Many dog parents share this messy frustration and wonder why their otherwise pampered pooch seems to have such an aversion to staying clean. But rest assured, your dog isn’t doing this to annoy you. Rolling in dirt is a deeply ingrained behaviour rooted in their ancestry. Wolves and other wild canines often roll in strong-smelling substances like dirt or mud to mask their natural scent, which helps them remain undetected by both prey and predators. While your modern-day pup might spend their days lounging on the couch and enjoying belly rubs, their instincts remain hardwired to behave in ways that were once crucial for survival.
But masking their scent isn’t the only reason your dog might revel in getting dirty. Rolling in the dirt is also a way for dogs to release pent-up energy, scratch an itch, or even enjoy the sensory delight of earthy smells. On hot days, mud or cool soil can help regulate their body temperature, providing relief from the heat. Though it can be frustrating to see your clean pup transform into a mud-covered adventurer, this behaviour is perfectly natural.
8. Why does my dog tilt its head?
Have you ever noticed your dog looking at you with a puzzled expression, as if trying to decipher your strange human behaviour? Why are they walking on two legs? Why are they using that baby voice? What is that thing they’re eating? Dogs often tilt their heads during such moments, but there’s more to this charming gesture than meets the eye. A head tilt is your dog’s way of showing engagement, like how a human might nod along during a conversation. Social dogs that enjoy interacting with humans often tilt their heads to encourage further attention or to signal their interest in continuing the interaction. But there’s also a practical side to this behaviour. Dogs use head tilts to process information more effectively. By tilting their heads, they can better assess our facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. Since their snouts can partially obstruct their view, tilting helps them see our faces more clearly, giving them a better perspective to interpret what we’re communicating.
9. Why does my dog watch me on the toilet?
Do you have a clingy dog that insists on keeping you company even during your most private moments, like when you’re in the bathroom? If your dog loves to spend quality time in the loo, there are a few reasons behind this quirky behaviour. First, it may stem from their instinct for protection. As we’ve discussed before, dogs can feel vulnerable when they relieve themselves, so they assume you might feel the same. By standing guard while you’re in the bathroom, they’re trying to protect you from any potential threats. While the chances of your dog needing to fend off a predator in your bathroom are slim, it’s sweet to know they’ve got your back. Another explanation is their strong desire to bond with you. Dogs are social creatures and love to be close to their humans. They don’t want to miss a single moment with you, even if it’s just a quick trip to the bathroom. After all, what if you’re having fun without them? Dogs are the ultimate kings and queens of FOMO!
10. Why does my dog circle before lying down?
Have you ever noticed your dog circling a few times before settling down to relax? This endearing behaviour is deeply rooted in their instincts and serves several purposes, both practical and comforting. In the wild, wolves would spin around before lying down to ensure their safety, checking for predators, and securing their resting spot. While your dog lives a much more comfortable and protected life, this instinctive behaviour remains ingrained, they circle to assess their surroundings before settling. Another reason stems from their ancestral habit of preparing a sleeping area. Wild dogs and wolves would trample grass or dig into the ground to create a comfortable “nest.” Even though today’s dogs enjoy the luxury of soft beds and cosy couches, they often continue this ritual as a nod to their natural instincts.
Your dog’s quirky behaviours are more than just amusing, they’re a window into their instincts, emotions, and need for connection. From their curious stares to their zoomies, each action has a purpose. By understanding these behaviours, you can deepen the bond with your furry friend and create a more fulfilling life together. And if you want to help manage their behaviour (and save your furniture), treat them to some super strong and satisfying TastyBones, made to keep your dog entertained and their chewing habits under control, at least until their next zoomies attack!
