Your short-legged friend has suddenly gone crazy. Maybe you’ve just come home from a walk, or they’ve just finished their kibble. For some reason, your Corgi is running in circles, and you’re pretty darn confused!
This sudden outburst of energy is called the “Frenetic random activity period,” or, in short: FRAPs. A more popular term is “The Zoomies.” Although it looks quite chaotic, FRAPs are a pretty regular occurrence when you have a Corgi around.
So while your short-legged friend is racing around the living room, you might ask yourself a question: why do Corgis FRAP? Is it something this specific breed does?
Heck, they’re energetic and at times seem a little wild! So is there something wrong with our favorite puppy? Let’s find out!
Why Do Corgis FRAP?
Before we dive into why do Corgis FRAP, we should know what FRAPs are in the first place. In dogs, frantic random activity periods are known by lots of names, including the zoomies, as mentioned above, zooms, or puppy crazies.
The name alone says most about it: FRAPs are considered random bursts of energy! During those times, a dog runs frantically and usually in circles. While some owners find the zoomies adorable, others get concerned about them.
FRAP’s are a natural way for your dog to get rid of energy. Even though your Corgi looks like it’s possessed, this activity allows them to relieve stress and handle the excitement. A frequent cause of zoomies is held-up energy that’s released in one big burst.
Also, dogs aren’t alone in doing the zoomies! Yes, they are most known for it, but many other wild and domesticated species get them too. Zoomie-like behaviors are also seen in ferrets, rabbits, goats, horses, cats, and even elephants!
Corgis are breeds that were initially meant for herding. As such, you can probably come to the conclusion that they have lots of energy! They used to be working dogs, after all. It’s vital for Corgis to always be physically and mentally stimulated. Daily energy drainers are a must with the breed!
The occurrence is usually no cause for alarm. They are natural dog behavior, and as long as your Corgi is not injuring themselves, FRAPs are entirely safe. However, it can be a sign of a more significant behavioral problem or a lack of exercise. So it’s helpful to monitor how often it occurs.
Common Triggers
Zooms are more frequent in young dogs and puppies. Most dogs overgrow them at a young age, but it’s not unusual for older pups to enjoy a little running around.
As we already mentioned, FRAPs are a way for your Corgi to release pent-up energy. However, there are a few precursors for zooms.
Often, Corgis will get the zoomies before bed, after bath-time, and after they had a meal. Every so often, FRAPs can even be contagious! It’s not rare that one zoomed-out doggie triggers another to join the FRAPathon.
Stress or confusion can also set off random bursts of energy. If your Corgi gets way too stressed, there’s a chance they are going to switch that nervous energy into a few hyper circles. Stress triggers can range from demanding training to just a visit to the vet!
Sometimes, a zoomie trigger can be at a specific time of the day. If you keep your Corgi in a crate, there’s a chance that he’s gonna need a couple of circles after a long night of being locked up.
What To Look For
A glint in your Corgis eye is the first sign of a beginning of a frantic episode.
A bowing position with their chest on the floor and tail in the air is usually the next step. That’s often followed up with a loud, high-pitched bark. Next thing you know, they’re faster than the sound of the bark they just let out!
How To Deal With The Zoomies?
Because zoomies can get quite “explosive,” most owners aren’t sure how to deal with their Corgis during those times. For starters, if your puppy is prone to zoomies, provide a safe place for when the outburst occurs.
Ideally, a safe place for zooming is inside your home or in a fenced yard. In both cases, it’s important that the zooming is happening far from breakable objects. When Corgis get the crazies, their mind wanders off and gets in sleep mode.
Although Corgis are considered medium-sized or even small in some categorizations, they’re not a weak breed!
This is why you should keep small children or elderly family members away from the place where your Corgi’s having an episode. You don’t want them to be knocked out by your furry pal!
If you’re letting your dog FRAP inside of your home, make sure that it’s on a carpet. Hardwood floors, tiles, or any slick surfaces can be too slippery for dogs. Besides the risk of a short-term injury, your Corgi can damage its ankles in the long run.
Instead of controlling your Corgis FRAPs, control the places where he FRAPs! For instance, if you know that your Corgi gets the zoomies right after bath-time, make sure to take him directly to a safe place afterward.
“What if my Corgi gets FRAP at an inconvenient time?”
Well, no matter how much we try to manage the environment where Corgis can freely enjoy zoomies, sometimes it could come upon them at an inconvenient time or place. This could happen when new guests arrive or if he runs out of the dog park.
If you’re trying to get a hold of your frapping dog, it’s important not to chase them. Although it seems like there’s no other way, chasing your Corgi while he’s having an episode can make things worse.
If you run after your leashless Corgi, they’re likely going to misinterpret that for playtime. That means even more running!
Instead of chasing them – try slowly running away from them while calling them in a happy voice. Make sure to have high-value treats with you. You’re going to have to pay up if you want them to stop!
Aggressive Zoomies
During a FRAP episode, some Corgis tend to get aggressive. This can include nipping others at the heels or even biting. Although this is common, it can also be a sign of a lack of exercise. You should try to redirect that energy into some fun activities with your dog.
If your Corgi is not too aggressive, you can engage in a tug of war during those periods. On the other hand, if they’re going over the top, attach a short lead to maintain better control of them during these outbursts.
The Importance Of Regular Exercise
If done in a safe place, FRAPs are fun and harmless for Corgis. However, too many zoomies after the puppy period can be an indicator that your dog is bored. Although your Corgi looks tired after an episode, zoomies can’t be a replacement for physical activity.
Understandably, your Corgi will probably get fewer walks on a rainy day. Still, a full-grown Corgi should get at least one hour of physical exercise per day. Even if that seems like a lot, your little friend is energetic and has a lot of stamina!
Walking sometimes just isn’t enough for our short-legged friends. Especially when it’s done just to provide a potty break. Corgi is a breed that used to work on hills and farms all day long! For them, walking is second nature.
Rather than taking a few short walks around the block, keep your daily routes interesting. Let your Corgi sniff around, and try taking different paths from time to time. Introduce them to new streets and other friendly walkers!
Aside from the essential daily walks, try engaging in games with your pup. Corgis love tug of war or fetch. Additionally, it can be a great bonding time for the two of you! Providing your Corgi with enough play and exercise will keep them healthy and happy for many years to come.
Final Words
To sum it all up, FRAPs are a fun way for your Corgi to get rid of some pent-up energy. As adorable as it looks to you, it’s equally enjoyable for your big-eared pal!
While the zoomies are safe by themselves, it’s crucial to prevent potential accidents during those chaotic times. Ensure that your Corgi is frapping safely by getting rid of breakable objects in the zoomie intended place.
Don’t let your Corgi have the zoomies leashless or in a yard with no fence. As we mentioned, their mind pretty much goes blank at this point, and they are prone to mishaps. If your puppy does get away, just remember not to chase it. Running away from your pet can make them run even more!
Remember to take care of your Corgis’ physical and mental well-being by playing with them and getting them enough exercise. Although it’s normal for a puppy to be bored from time to time, you don’t want them to be unhappy in the long run.
Now that we clarified the main things about the puppy crazies let your Corgi enjoy the zoomies safely!
