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. 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. 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. Walking around in circles is a self preservation act of dogs in the wild. Before lying down to sleep a dog has to walk in circles to make sure that the chosen area is not inhabited by snakes or scorpions. 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. A dog owner would know what must be done if the pet starts to walk around – the dog has to be allowed to go out stat otherwise it would make an accident inside the house.
A dog trying to be cute to get the attention of the family will put on an act. The dog will continuously walk in circles especially if encouraged by the applause and the laughter of the family. Turning around is normal in dogs and even in cats. Walking around in circles is normally not dangerous but dog owners must be aware that this habit can be a sign that the pet has an underlying medical concern.
A dog will lose its sense of balance if the inner ear is impaired given the fact that the ear is one of the balance centers of the body. Ear mite infestation and ear infection that severely damage the ears can be the reason why the dog is walking in circles. Pet antibiotics and ear washes can make the dog walk in circles if these medications and formulations have a negative effect on the dog.
Canine distemper, systemic lupus erythematosus and vestibular diseases are other medical conditions that will make the dog walk in circles. The cerebellum, an area in the brain plays the important role of controlling balance and voluntary movement. 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.
