Understanding why dogs walk in circles
Walking in circles is a normal behavior of dogs. Walking in circles is a canine habit that was handed down by the dog’s ancestors. Walking around in circles is done by primitive dogs specifically to make the sleeping area more comfortable. Unlike modern day pets that are provided with comfortable beds, dogs in the wild would sleep under the stars on hard ground covered with snow or leaves.
What the dog will do to make the nesting area a little more comfortable is to walk around in circles. Dogs have to protect themselves from dangerous insects and from predators. To ensure that no snakes, scorpions or other venomous insects are lurking in the sleeping area, a dogs will walk around in circles. 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. A dog putting on an act to entertain the family may tilt its head or turn around in circles. 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. Dogs commonly lose sense of balance if the ears are damaged due to ear infection or ear mite infestation. Some pet antibiotics and over the counter ear washes may have a negative effects on the dog as these medications will make the pet walk in circles.
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 in the brain controls the voluntary movements and balance. A tumor in the cerebellum can be the reason for the dog’s tendency to walk in circles as the growth will make the dog lose its sense of balance and coordination.
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.
