Dogs have been our loyal companions for thousands of years, but even the most domesticated dogs still surprise us with their quirky habits and strange things they do. From tail-chasing to rolling in smelly stuff, many dog owners are left asking: What are some strange behaviors dogs exhibit? and why do they happen?
This guide dives into weird dog behaviors, explaining the instinctual reasons behind them and when they might signal a medical issue. Understanding these actions not only entertains us but also helps us better care for our furry friends. By the end of this guide, you’ll be better equipped to determine whether your dog’s behavior is a normal expression of their personality or a signal that something might be wrong.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs exhibit odd behaviors like zoomies, tail-chasing, and rolling in dead animals due to instinct, excitement, or boredom.
- Actions like eating grass, licking, or scooting may seem strange but are often perfectly normal or instinctual behavior.
- If behaviors become excessive, it may signal stress, nutritional deficiencies, or other health concerns—consult a veterinarian when in doubt.
- The awkward eye contact a dog makes while pottying is a sign of alertness to potential threats.
Understanding Instinctual Behavior in Domesticated Dogs
Dogs evolved from wild ancestors and still retain many of the instinctual behaviors that helped them survive. Even though today’s domesticated dogs live comfortably in our homes, they continue to act on urges tied to hunting, communication, and environmental awareness, such as dog chases and tail chasing. Pups often roll in foul-smelling substances to mask their own scent, a behavior that can be traced back to their wild ancestors. Behaviors like tail chasing, rolling in smelly stuff, or even eating poop can be traced back to survival tactics, territorial instincts, or social bonding methods seen in wild canines. Other odd behaviors, like when dogs howl at sirens, also stem from natural instincts.
Recognizing that many weird dog behaviors stem from natural instinct helps dog owners better understand and accept these actions, even if they appear unusual or unpleasant by human standards.
When to Worry: Signs of a Medical Issue
While most dog behavior is perfectly normal, some actions may indicate an underlying medical issue. Red flags include:
- Persistent scooting
- Constant tail chasing or spinning
- Compulsive licking or biting
- Excessive head tilting or balance issues
For instance, barking during sleep is usually a sign of dreaming, but if it becomes excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate a health issue like seizures.
Such symptoms could suggest pain, allergies, infections, or even neurological conditions. If your dog suddenly starts exhibiting strange behavior, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a full evaluation.
How to Manage Weird Dog Behaviors at Home
Helping your dog navigate their odd dog behaviors starts with understanding and consistency. Here are a few strategies:
- Positive reinforcement: Reward calm, desirable behaviors.
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle feeders, scent games, and interactive toys reduce boredom.
- Physical exercise: Regular walks and play help burn off pent-up energy.
- Clean environment: Minimizing access to garbage or smelly things reduces rolling or poop eating.
- Encourage physical play: Activities like letting your dog roll in the grass can provide both fun and sensory enrichment.
When paired with routine vet care and proper nutrition, these approaches can greatly improve behavior and well-being.
How Behavior Varies by Age and Breed
Not all dogs exhibit the same strange habits. Young dogs and puppies tend to be more curious and energetic, leading to more tail chasing, grass eating, or zoomies. For example, young dogs may exhibit rapid eye movements during sleep, indicating they are in the REM stage and experiencing vivid dreams. On the other hand, older dogs may show changes in behavior due to arthritis, dental problems, or cognitive decline.
Breed also plays a role. Herding breeds like Border Collies are more prone to chasing or obsessive behavior. Hounds, with strong scent drives, may roll in smells more often. Understanding your dog’s breed traits can help you spot what’s normal and what’s not.
Behavioral Red Flags to Discuss With Your Vet
Here are specific dog behaviors explained that may need veterinary attention:
- Dogs lick their paws constantly: May indicate anxiety or allergies.
- Dogs eat poop regularly: Could be linked to nutritional deficiencies.
- Sudden onset of dogs tilt their heads: Might indicate an ear infection.
- Reluctance to eat, play, or interact: A broad sign something is wrong.
Advancements in veterinary medicine, such as those pioneered by experts like Dr. Shea Cox, can provide specialized care for these issues.
By tracking these behaviors and discussing them with your vet, you can address potential problems early and keep your dog feeling their best.
Zoomies: Pent-Up Energy Released
One of the most energetic and odd dog behaviors is the zoomies, technically called frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs). You’ll see your dog darting around the house or yard like it’s on a mission. Most dogs get zoomies after a bath, after pooping, or when they’re overly excited. This burst of energy is their way of relieving stress and expressing joy.
If you have a new pet, understanding and managing their energy levels can help reduce the frequency of zoomies.
Zoomies are a common dog behavior and are typically nothing to worry about. In fact, zoomies show that your pup has energy to burn—just be careful they don’t crash into furniture or other pets! In households with multiple pets or other dogs, zoomies can spark spontaneous play sessions that look chaotic but are often completely harmless.
If your dog experiences frequent zoomies indoors, consider increasing outdoor playtime to help them burn off that energy in a safe space. Regular walks, fetch games, and agility training can also help minimize indoor outbursts.
Tail-Chasing: Cute or Concerning?
Tail chasing in young dogs is often playful, as they explore their rear ends and learn body awareness. However, if adult dogs chase their tails compulsively, it could be a symptom of anxiety, boredom, or even canine compulsive disorder.
Some dogs may engage in tail chasing due to irritation caused by fleas, allergies, or even impacted anal glands, leading them to focus on their dog’s butt. If left unaddressed, this behavior can escalate into self-injury. Watch for signs such as skin redness, hair loss near the tail, or whining during the chase. These could indicate a medical issue rather than mere amusement.
Keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated can reduce tail chasing. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and social interactions with other pets can go a long way in preventing boredom-related behaviors.
Dogs Roll in Smelly Stuff: Why It Happens
Watching dogs roll in smelly stuff like a dead animal, compost, or garbage might disgust us, but for dogs, it’s an instinctual behavior that dates back to their wild ancestors. Dogs evolved to mask their own scent to avoid detection by prey or rivals.
For dogs, rolling in the grass is enjoyable because it smells good and provides sensory stimulation.
Today’s domesticated dogs don’t need to hide their scent, but this behavior persists. Rolling in strong odors is a form of environmental enrichment—it provides sensory stimulation that’s very different from what humans consider pleasant. Some experts even suggest that dogs may roll in certain scents to communicate with other dogs or assert territory.
While this behavior is often perfectly normal, you should still discourage rolling in potentially hazardous substances like pesticide-treated grass or spoiled food. Keeping your backyard clean and supervising walks can help manage this.
Why Dogs Eat Grass: A Natural Instinct
A common concern among dog owners is: Why do dogs eat grass? Theories suggest it’s a natural instinct, possibly to aid digestion, induce vomiting, or fulfill a dietary need like fiber. Sometimes dogs just enjoy the texture or taste of grass, particularly young, tender blades.
Another peculiar behavior a dog makes is eating grass, which can be linked to various instinctual needs. For many domesticated dogs, this behavior serves no nutritional purpose—it’s just a leftover instinct from their wild ancestors. In the wild, canines consumed entire animals, including herbivores that had grass in their stomachs. Modern dogs may be mimicking that pattern.
Veterinary studies have shown that most dogs that eat grass are not actually sick beforehand, and fewer than 25% vomit afterward. So while it looks strange, it’s generally normal behavior.
However, frequent or excessive grass eating could indicate nutritional deficiencies or gastrointestinal discomfort. Consider evaluating your dog’s food for quality ingredients and necessary nutrients. And always ensure that the grass your dog consumes hasn’t been treated with fertilizers or pesticides, as those can pose significant health risks.
Butt Sniffing: The Canine Handshake
While awkward for humans to witness, sniffing another dog’s butt is one of the most common dog behaviors and an important part of dog body language. Dogs use their highly developed sense of smell to gather information from other dogs, such as identity, gender, emotional state, and reproductive status.
This behavior helps dogs establish social hierarchies and maintain peaceful interactions. The anal glands produce a unique scent that acts like a fingerprint, offering insights no visual inspection can provide. If your dog appears too assertive or timid during greetings, pay attention to how they engage in butt sniffing. It reveals more than you might expect.
Let your dog engage in this greeting ritual in a safe, controlled environment, especially when introducing them to new pets or unfamiliar settings.
Humping: Not Just Dominance
Though often seen as inappropriate or embarrassing, humping is rarely just about dominance. Dogs hump due to excitement, stress, lack of stimulation, or even play. Both male and female dogs hump, and it’s usually normal behavior unless it becomes excessive.
Humping is another peculiar behavior a dog makes, often due to excitement or stress.
Puppies often hump as a part of play and exploration, while older dogs might do it to release tension. Some dogs even hump their favorite toy or a blanket. Although humping can be humorous, it’s also a sign to observe whether your dog is feeling anxious or under-stimulated.
Redirect the behavior with positive reinforcement techniques. Teach basic commands, offer distraction toys, or encourage more physical activity. If humping is constant or aggressive, especially toward other pets, consult a veterinarian or certified behaviorist.
Scooting: Anal Gland Problems
When a dog’s butt drags across the floor (aka scooting), it’s often due to anal gland problems. Anal glands are small sacs on either side of the anus that can become full, impacted, or infected, causing itching and discomfort.
Besides scooting, your dog might show signs such as licking the rear excessively, straining to defecate, or emitting a foul odor. If untreated, infected glands can lead to abscesses or more serious conditions requiring medical intervention.
Routine grooming, a fiber-rich diet, and regular vet checkups can prevent anal gland issues. In some breeds, manual expression may be needed more frequently, so speak with your vet about the right care routine.
Head Tilting: Empathy or Curiosity?
Few things are cuter than when dogs tilt their heads with that curious look. But why do they do it? One reason is to better localize sounds—tilting helps adjust the position of their ears to pinpoint the direction of noise. Another theory is that head tilting helps dogs see around their muzzles, especially for long-snouted breeds.
Head tilting may also be tied to emotional engagement. Just like when dogs roll on their backs to show submission or comfort, head tilting may also reflect emotional awareness or a desire to better interpret human cues. Dogs seem to respond empathetically to tone and body language, mirroring human emotions. In fact, some dog owners unintentionally encourage this behavior by rewarding it with attention or treats.
However, persistent or sudden tilting could signal an underlying issue like an ear infection, vestibular disease, or neurological problems. If your dog exhibits balance issues or repetitive tilting, consult your vet.
Poop Eating: Understanding Coprophagy
Poop eating, or coprophagy, is one of the more perplexing and weird things dogs do. Though it grosses out many pet parents, it’s more common than you might think—especially in puppies and young dogs.
Poop eating is another strange behavior a dog makes, often due to boredom or nutritional deficiencies. Dogs might eat poop due to boredom, stress, confinement, or the instinct to clean their living area. Some even develop the habit from watching other dogs. Health-related reasons include nutritional deficiencies, enzyme imbalances, and digestive issues.
Preventive steps include keeping your dog’s environment clean, supervising bathroom time, using deterrent sprays, and ensuring a well-balanced diet. In multi-pet households, scoop regularly to reduce temptation. If the behavior persists, a full checkup with your veterinarian is essential to rule out medical issues.
Licking: Comfort and Communication
Dogs lick to show affection, communicate, and soothe themselves. It’s a grooming habit that begins in puppyhood and often extends to licking people, other pets, or even household objects. Licking triggers the release of endorphins, helping dogs relieve stress.
Licking is another peculiar behavior a dog makes, often to show affection or soothe themselves.
That said, excessive licking—especially of paws, walls, or furniture—can point to stress, anxiety, allergies, or pain. Behavioral triggers could include a change in routine, new pets, or environmental noise.
Try offering chew toys, redirecting with play, and using positive reinforcement to reward calm behaviors. If obsessive licking continues, seek advice on behavioral therapy or a possible diagnosis of canine compulsive disorder.
Affectionate Behaviors: Expressions of Love
Dogs are known for their affectionate nature, and they express their love and affection in various ways. One of the most common affectionate behaviors is licking. Dogs lick their owners as a way of showing affection and marking them with their scent. This behavior is a form of communication that dates back to their early interactions with their mothers and littermates.
In addition to licking, dogs also nuzzle, cuddle, and lean against their owners to display their love and loyalty. These behaviors create a sense of closeness and security, strengthening the bond between dogs and their human family members. Some dogs even give their owners gentle bites or nibbles as a way of showing affection, a behavior that can be traced back to their playful interactions as puppies.
Many dog owners have experienced the joy of receiving a sloppy lick or a snuggle from their furry friend. These moments of affection are not only heartwarming but also serve as a reminder of the deep connection between dogs and their owners. By recognizing and reciprocating these affectionate behaviors, dog owners can enhance their relationship with their pets and ensure their emotional well-being.
Hunting Instincts: The Call of the Wild
Despite being domesticated, many dogs still retain their hunting instincts. These natural behaviors are a remnant of their wild ancestors, who relied on hunting for survival. Dogs chase, dogs kick, and dogs twitch their tails when they sense prey or experience pent-up energy. These actions are not only instinctual but also provide dogs with a way to relieve stress and exercise their natural instincts.
For example, many dogs will chase squirrels, birds, or even leaves blowing in the wind. This chasing behavior is a direct link to their predatory past. Similarly, dogs may kick up dirt after going to the bathroom, a behavior that mimics the act of covering their tracks in the wild. Twitching tails can also be a sign of excitement or anticipation, often seen when a dog is focused on a potential target.
Understanding and respecting these hunting instincts is essential for providing dogs with the physical and mental stimulation they need. Engaging in activities like fetch, agility training, or scent games can help satisfy these natural urges and prevent boredom-related behaviors. By channeling their hunting instincts in positive ways, dog owners can ensure their pets remain happy, healthy, and well-adjusted.
In conclusion, recognizing and understanding the various aspects of canine behavior, from affectionate gestures to hunting instincts, allows dog owners to better care for their pets. By embracing these behaviors and providing appropriate outlets, we can create a fulfilling and enriching environment for our beloved dogs.
Summary
Understanding strange things in dog behavior, from zoomies and tail chasing to poop eating and grass munching, helps pet parents keep their dogs healthy and happy. While most are perfectly normal and part of a dog’s natural instinct, excessive or obsessive behaviors can signal a medical issue.
Pay close attention to changes in behavior, energy levels, or eating habits. Dogs are masters of subtle communication, and what seems like a silly habit might be their way of expressing discomfort or asking for help.
For more tips on dog behavior and care, check out our full library of dog advice where we explore all the quirky, lovable things dogs do—and why they do them.
Always observe your dog’s routines and consult a veterinarian if anything seems off. Embrace the quirks—these weird dog behaviors are part of what makes our pets unique and endearing.
FAQs
Why do dogs get zoomies?
Zoomies, also known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs), are sudden bursts of pent-up energy that dogs release when they’re excited, happy, or relieved—such as after a bathroom break or bath. This behavior is a healthy, natural way for dogs to blow off steam and express joy.
Is it normal for dogs to eat grass?
Yes, eating grass is a common and generally normal behavior in dogs. They may eat grass to add fiber to their diet, satisfy a craving for taste or texture, or follow an instinctual urge. Just be sure the grass hasn’t been treated with pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals that could harm your dog.
Why does my dog chase its tail?
Tail chasing can be playful, especially in puppies and young dogs exploring their bodies. However, if tail chasing becomes frequent or obsessive, it might indicate stress, boredom, or a condition called canine compulsive disorder (CCD). If you notice excessive tail chasing, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
What should I do if my dog is scooting?
Scooting—dragging the rear end along the ground—is often a sign of anal gland discomfort or infection. If your dog scoots frequently, schedule a veterinary visit for diagnosis and treatment. Regular grooming and a fiber-rich diet can help prevent anal gland problems.
How can I stop my dog from eating poop?
Poop eating, or coprophagy, is a common but unpleasant behavior. To discourage it, keep your dog’s environment clean by promptly removing feces, provide a well-balanced diet to address nutritional needs, and keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated. If the behavior persists despite these efforts, consult your veterinarian for further advice.