Why Do Dogs Walk Around In Circles
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Walking around in circles is an innate behavior of dogs. The modern day dog’s habit of walking in circles is a carryover trait from their ancestors. As primitive dogs would sleep anywhere, they need to make the chosen place a bit comfortable and this can be done by walking around to trample the vegetation. Dogs in the wild unlike today’s dogs don’t have the luxury of sleeping in comfortable beds as they normally curl down on the snow or on the dirt covered ground.
Walking around in circles to trample the vegetation will make the sleeping area more comfortable. Walking around in circles is a self preservation act of dogs in the wild. Walking in circles before lying down is done to ensure that no poisonous insects or snakes are hiding in the sleeping area. Walking in circles is also done to make sure the chosen bedding area is safe and that they will not be attacked by predators while they are sleeping. Dog owners would know that when the pet inside the house walks around in circles they have to act - fast as it is a sign that the dog is about to defecate.
A dog trying to be cute to get the attention of the family will put on an act. Dogs would continue acting if they know that they are entertaining the family thus walking in circles will be continued. Turning around is normal in dogs and even in cats. Dogs are noted to walk around in circles before lying down or before doing their business but if these are not the reasons for walking around in circles , a pet parent has to be concerned as it is highly probable that the dog has an underlying health concern.
The ears is one of the balance centers of the body and if the ears are damaged, the dog will lose coordination and balance and walk in circles. Ear mite infestation and ear infection are the common reasons why the inner ear is damaged. Pet antibiotics and ear washes can make the dog walk in circles if these medications and formulations have a negative effect on the dog.
A dog’s tendency to walk in circles can be attributed to medical conditions such as vestibular diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus and canine distemper. The cerebellum, an area in the brain plays the important role of controlling balance and voluntary movement. A dog with a tumor in this area can lose coordination and sense of direction so that the dog will walk in circles.
Why do dogs walk around in circles? Sarah’s Dogs have more answers to this common dog behaviour as well as information on dog first aid.
Tagged with: dog • dog behaviour • pet • why do dogs walk around in circles
Filed under: General Dogs Discussion
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