Why Does My Dog Do That? A Look at Their Funniest (and Strangest) Habits

If you live with a dog, you’ve probably found yourself laughing at their antics more than once. One minute they’re chasing their own tail, the next they’re snoring loudly while sleeping upside down on the couch. Dogs are full of personality—and sometimes full of strange behavior too.

Here are some of the most common (and comical) dog habits, plus what they might mean.

1. The Zoomies (a.k.a. FRAPs)

Suddenly, your dog bolts around the house like their tail’s on fire, skidding across floors and launching off furniture. These high-energy outbursts are called Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs)—or as we like to call them, the zoomies.

Why it happens:

Zoomies usually strike when dogs are super excited, especially after a bath, a walk, or a nap. It’s just their way of burning off extra energy—and it’s totally normal.

2. Spinning Before They Lie Down

Dogs love to circle around their bed—or yours—before finally plopping down.

Why it happens:

This habit goes back to their wild ancestors, who would trample down grass or leaves to create a comfy sleeping spot. It’s instinctive, even if your dog is about to curl up on a memory foam bed.

3. Sniffing Butts

Yes, it’s weird. Yes, it’s awkward. But to dogs, it’s perfectly normal.

Why it happens:

Dogs have powerful scent glands near their rear ends. A quick sniff tells them everything from another dog’s age to their mood. It’s basically their version of a handshake.

4. Sleeping in Odd Positions

Curled into a donut, flat on their back with legs in the air, or draped dramatically over the edge of the couch—dogs have some hilarious sleep styles.

Why it happens:

Sleep positions often reflect how relaxed (or warm) a dog feels. A dog on its back is totally comfortable and feels safe in its environment.

5. Burying Toys in the Couch

You just found a slobbery tennis ball under your pillow. Why does your dog hide their toys like buried treasure?

Why it happens:

This behavior is rooted in a dog’s natural instinct to hide food or valuables for later. In the wild, burying things helped dogs protect them from other animals. In your house, the couch cushions do just fine.

6. Tilting Their Head When You Talk

Nothing melts your heart faster than a dog tilting their head when you speak. It’s adorable—but also puzzling.

Why it happens:

Head tilting helps dogs better hear and interpret sounds. Some experts believe it also helps them read facial expressions and focus on your words. Basically, it’s their way of saying, “I’m listening!”

7. Chasing Their Tail

This can be amusing or a little concerning, depending on how often it happens.

Why it happens:

For puppies, it’s a way to learn about their body and burn energy. For older dogs, it may be boredom, playfulness, or a habit. If it becomes obsessive, it’s worth checking with your vet.

8. Carrying Around Shoes (but Not Chewing Them)

Some dogs love to walk around the house with your shoes, socks, or random items—but they don’t always chew them.

Why it happens:

It’s usually for comfort. Your scent is on the item, and it gives them a sense of security—especially if you’re not home.

9. Watching You in the Bathroom

There’s nothing quite like the intense eye contact your dog gives you when you’re just trying to pee in peace.

Why it happens:

Dogs are pack animals. They follow you because they see you as part of their group—and because they love you. Plus, if you’ve ever let them in the bathroom once, they remember.

10. The “Guilty” Look

Your dog knocks over the trash can, and suddenly they’re avoiding eye contact and hanging their head. Guilty? Maybe not.

Why it happens:

That “guilty” look is actually a response to your tone and body language, not their actions. Dogs don’t feel guilt the way humans do—but they do know when you’re upset.

Final Thoughts

Dogs are loyal, affectionate, and occasionally a little strange—and that’s what makes them so lovable. While some of their habits might leave us scratching our heads, they’re often rooted in instinct, communication, or just plain fun.

Next time your dog does something weird, take a moment to laugh, learn, and appreciate just how wonderfully unique they are.

What’s the funniest thing your dog does? Share it in the comments—we could all use a good laugh!