FUN FACTS ON DAILY DOG BEHAVIOUR

\n\nIn last month’s article, we discussed a few fun facts on daily dog behavior that you may notice regularly with your furry companion. These behaviours included the explanations of why your dog cocks his head to one side during high pitched sounds; why and when they sneeze; why they circle in an area before resting; and what it means for them to relieve themselves near their humans. In this month’s article, we will continue to discuss more common behaviors seen in canines.\n\nYou may notice that your puppy or adult dog show moments of feeling extremely hyper and not being able to catch their breath while aimlessly running around. These moments are sometimes referred to as ‘Zoomies’. These bursts of excitement are only exhibited in happy and healthy canines. In scientific terms, Zoomies are known as ‘FRAPS’, which stand for ‘Frenetic Random Activity Periods’. These periods of energy can be due to the need for relieving stress, build up energy or trying to handle excitement and play.\n\nAnother quirky behaviour seen is when dogs will take their toys, treats or food offered to them and carry them to another area or their bed to indulge in these items separately, away from others. This behaviour is very interesting in that it can hold a meaning of a few different reasons behind this action. One reason is that they simply do not like metal bowls in which their food or treats are being given and wish to eat the offerings out of it.\n\nYou may notice this especially when your dog refuses to eat his food in his steel bowl, but instead prefers to eat it on the floor or hand-fed. Another simple reason is that your dog possibly may not enjoy eating his food alone. This can be seen if your dog brings his food or treats near to where you are eating already. A gesture to share a meal with you and to not feel lonely. Last, but not least, a third possible reason is that your dog wishes to protect or hide his food. This is a sign of being protective or territorial. If you feel that your dog may be displaying such signs, then it is important to consult your local veterinarian for tips on improving this unwanted behavior. You may notice that your dog often comes up to you and leans against your leg while you are standing or sitting. This action is a completely harmless and devoted sign of love towards their owner. This expression of affection is a way of them trying to get as close as possible as they can to you. It is a way for them to ask for affection in return during the moment. Since dogs are aware that they cannot physically hug you, leaning against you is the closest way they can achieve of giving a hug in their terms.\n\nYou may notice your dog scooting their rear end against the grass, carpet, floor or bedding at times. This action is one that indicates that veterinarian consult might be needed as soon as you notice this behavior. This indicates that there may be an issue involving the anal sacs of the dog. These glands can become clogged or injured due to many different reasons, which then lead to the action of scooting against a hard surface. A consultation with your veterinarian at this point is highly recommended, since this issue can be caused by an underlying factor of anal gland expression needed, parasites or allergies.\n\n