Many dogs circle and paw at their bedding before lying down. While some owners may worry that their dog is uncomfortable or has a medical issue, the behavior is usually completely normal and rooted in instinct. That being said, excessive or sudden circling can indicate a health issue, so it’s a good idea to understand what’s normal and when you should be concerned.
Read on for answers to your common questions about dog circling behavior and dog nesting behavior.
Q1: Why does my dog circle before lying down?
In most cases, a dog circles before lying down because it’s an instinct they’ve inherited from their canine ancestors. Even though our dogs have been domesticated over thousands of years, they still retain many natural behaviors, even those that aren’t necessary for survival.
We generally believe that the behavior is to create a comfortable resting spot by flattening grass or bedding. The dog may also be establishing their preferred sleeping position. It’s also possible that the dog has inherited the spin as a way to check their surroundings for safety, though most dogs who perform this behavior aren’t showing any signs that they’re concerned about dangers in the home.
Q2: Is it normal for dogs to circle before lying down?
Yes, it’s normal for dogs to circle at least once or twice before lying down. You may also notice your dog scratching or pawing at the bedding, this is also totally normal.
The behavior may vary by breed and the dog’s individual personality. Some dogs display the behavior less often while others will do it almost every time they lie down. Circling before resting is an extremely common and normal dog bedtime behavior.
Q3: Why do some dogs spin more than others before settling down?
Some dogs spin more than others before settling because of their individual preferences and habits or breed tendencies. Occasionally, excitement or anxiety may increase the number of circles you see. You might also notice differences in how much the dog circles with different bedding or sleeping surfaces.
For example, a dog who has blankets on their bed may do more pawing and spinning as they adjust the blankets before lying down. The number of times your dog circles before lying down is less important than whether the behavior has changed significantly over time. It’s also more concerning if they’re repeatedly getting back up and adjusting, like they truly can’t get comfortable.
Q4: Can circling before lying down ever indicate a medical problem?
Occasionally, a dog who is uncomfortable may circle repeatedly because they have trouble finding a comfortable position.
Conditions that may contribute to dog circling behaviors include:
- Arthritis or joint pain (including hip dysplasia)
- Neurological conditions
- Vision problems
- Cognitive dysfunction in senior dogs (i.e., dog dementia)
- Abdominal discomfort (e.g., pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, gastroenteritis, etc.)
Q5: How can I tell if my dog's circling is normal or a concern?
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with your dog’s normal behavior. This doesn’t mean you need to count how often they circle and report any deviations; however, if you’re noticing that the behavior is new or worsening, the dog is repeatedly getting up and circling or adjusting, they seem stiff or are limping, they struggle to lie down or stand back up, or they’re restless or confused, these are signs that may indicate a cause for concern.
You’ll also want to consider your dog’s general daytime behavior, such as whether there have been appetite changes or they’re less inclined to participate in play or exercise.
Q6: When should I call my veterinarian?
Remember, circling before lying down is usually completely normal. It’s still a good idea to know the signs that indicate your pet may need veterinary attention.
These include:
- Sudden increase in circling behavior
- Difficulty lying down or rising
- Pain, stiffness, or limping
- Confusion or disorientation
- Whimpering or other vocalizations while circling
- Changes in appetite, energy level, or behavior
- Restlessness or inability to settle
- Circling when the dog is not preparing to lie down
- Bumping into objects as if they cannot see
- Head tilt, abnormal eye movements, or drunken gait
You can always video the behavior and show it to your veterinarian if you’re at all concerned.
Dog circling is usually a completely normal, instinctive behavior that is harmless, but excessive circling, signs of discomfort, or sudden behavioral changes indicate that your pet may need veterinary attention. By understanding normal dog behavior, pet owners can distinguish their pet’s normal bedtime behavior from potential health concerns.
