Last Updated on May 26, 2025 by Dogs Vets
Dogs do the weirdest things, don’t they? From zooming around the house at top speed to staring you down during potty time, our furry companions often leave us scratching our heads. Are they just being silly—or is there a deeper reason behind these antics?
In this blog post, we explore 10 odd dog behaviors explained by science and experience—and yes, #7 might actually surprise you. Whether you’re a seasoned dog parent or a curious newbie, understanding these strange habits can help you better bond with your pup and even spot health concerns early.
Let’s decode the quirks!
🐾 1. Tail Chasing
Is your dog doing laps in circles trying to catch its own tail like it’s the enemy? While it may look hilarious, tail chasing can be caused by:
- Boredom or excess energy
- Fleas or irritation
- Obsessive-compulsive behavior
- Neurological issues (in rare cases)
For puppies, it’s usually harmless play. But if your adult dog does it excessively or seems distressed, talk to your vet.
Expert Tip: Add more mental stimulation and physical exercise to your dog’s routine. A tired dog is less likely to spin endlessly!
🐶 2. Scooting (Dragging Butt on the Floor)
It’s funny to watch, but it’s also kind of gross. Dogs scoot when they’re:
- Trying to relieve anal gland pressure
- Suffering from worms or parasites
- Experiencing skin irritation or allergies
While scooting once in a while isn’t an emergency, frequent scooting warrants a vet check.
Did You Know? Groomers can express your dog’s anal glands as part of their cleaning routine.
🐕 3. Zoomies (Sudden Bursts of Energy)
Technically called Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), zoomies are completely normal and often adorable. You’ll notice them:
- After a bath
- After pooping
- During playtime
- When they’re super happy
Zoomies are your dog’s way of releasing pent-up energy or celebrating life. Just ensure they’re in a safe area when the zoomie storm hits!
🌿 4. Eating Grass
This is one of the most common odd behaviors people ask about. Why do dogs eat grass?
- Some say it helps settle their stomachs
- Others believe it’s instinctual—like when wild dogs ate the stomach contents of herbivores
- It may also be a sign of nutrient deficiency or boredom
Unless your dog is vomiting afterward or eating grass obsessively, it’s usually harmless.
Caution: Avoid grass treated with pesticides or chemicals.
🧍♂️ 5. Staring at You While Pooping
This one’s awkward… but totally normal!
Dogs often stare at their owners while pooping because they feel vulnerable and are seeking protection. It’s their way of saying:
“Hey, I’m kind of exposed here. Keep an eye out for danger, okay?”
Since dogs are pack animals, this trust-based glance is oddly heartwarming.
🐾 6. Sleeping with Their Back to You
If your dog turns its back on you when sleeping, don’t take it personally. In fact, it’s a huge sign of trust.
Dogs naturally want to protect their vulnerable side (their belly and face). So when they sleep with their back turned, it means they feel:
- Safe
- Relaxed
- Comfortable around you
It’s like the canine version of saying, “You’ve got my back.”
😲 7. Spinning Before They Poop (Or Sleep)
And here comes the surprising one…
Dogs often spin in circles before they poop or lie down—and it’s not just a cute ritual.
Here’s what studies suggest:
- Dogs may be aligning themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field (yes, seriously!)
According to a 2013 study published in Frontiers in Zoology, dogs prefer to align their bodies north-south when relieving themselves.
- It’s also a way to flatten grass, check surroundings, or get comfortable
This instinct comes from their wild ancestors who needed to create a safe, visible space before resting or defecating.
Fun Fact: This behavior is more noticeable in open spaces like parks than indoors.
😱 8. Howling at Sirens or Music
Why do dogs join in with fire trucks, pianos, or your off-key singing?
Because howling is a form of communication. Your dog thinks:
- A siren is another dog howling in the distance
- They’re joining a pack call
- They’re signaling their presence or location
This behavior is genetically inherited from their wolf ancestors. If your dog doesn’t howl, don’t worry—some breeds are simply more vocal than others.
Breeds more likely to howl: Huskies, Beagles, Malamutes, Dachshunds, and Basset Hounds.
😴 9. Twitching in Sleep
Ever noticed your dog’s paws twitching or mouth moving while they snooze? This is REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, and yes—dogs do dream!
Dogs often:
- Twitch their legs
- Make small barks
- Paddle like they’re running
This means your pup is likely dreaming about chasing a ball, playing in the yard, or revisiting daily experiences.
Puppies and seniors tend to twitch more, as they have more intense sleep cycles.
🐾 10. Leaning on You Like a Living Weighted Blanket
If your dog leans on your leg, foot, or side—it’s not just cute. It’s a form of bonding and affection.
Dogs lean for a few key reasons:
- Seeking comfort or attention
- Feeling anxious or insecure
- Simply showing love and loyalty
Sometimes, leaning can also indicate pain or weakness, especially if the dog suddenly starts doing it more than usual. Monitor their health just in case.
Bottom line: A leaning dog is usually a loving dog. ❤️
🧠 Understanding Your Dog = Better Bonding
These odd dog behaviors might seem quirky or even annoying at times—but they all have biological, emotional, or instinctual reasons behind them.
When you begin to understand why your dog:
- Eats grass
- Runs in crazy circles
- Stares while pooping
- Spins before sleeping
—you start to see the world through their eyes, and that’s where true connection begins.
✅ Tips to Handle Strange Dog Behaviors
- Observe patterns: Note when and how often the behavior occurs.
- Reward healthy alternatives: Distract obsessive behaviors with toys or training.
- Consult your vet: Always rule out medical issues for sudden or excessive behaviors.
- Enrich their life: More walks, interactive toys, and bonding time reduce boredom-related quirks.
- Love them anyway: Even when they’re weird, they’re doing their best to communicate with you.
📋 Quick Recap: 10 Odd Dog Behaviors Explained
| Behavior | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Tail chasing | Boredom, fleas, or OCD |
| Scooting | Anal glands or irritation |
| Zoomies | Joy and energy release |
| Eating grass | Instinct, boredom, or nausea |
| Staring while pooping | Seeking safety from the pack |
| Sleeping with back to you | Trust and comfort |
| Spinning before pooping | Magnetic alignment, instinct, or comfort |
| Howling at sirens/music | Communication and pack behavior |
| Twitching in sleep | Dreaming during REM sleep |
| Leaning on you | Affection or seeking reassurance |
🐶 Final Thoughts: Embrace the Weird!
At the end of the day, dogs are full of personality—and yes, plenty of odd behavior. But once you understand where those habits come from, you realize:
They’re not just being weird… they’re being themselves.
If you’re ever in doubt, ask your vet. Otherwise, cherish every circle spin, poop stare, and midnight zoomie as part of your dog’s lovable quirks.
📚 References:
- Horowitz, A. (2009). Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know. Scribner.
- Miklósi, Á. (2007). Dog Behaviour, Evolution, and Cognition. Oxford University Press.
- Hart, B. L. (2011). Your Dog’s Behavior Explained. UC Davis Veterinary School.
- Frontiers in Zoology. (2013). “Dogs align their body axis with Earth’s magnetic field when defecating“
- American Kennel Club. “Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?“
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🐾 Because weird dogs are the best dogs.
