5 Prominent Reasons why dogs circle before they lay down.

There could be any number of reasons why your dog walks in circles before lying down, but here are five of the most common explanations:

1. They’re preparing for a nap

Just as humans sometimes do a little jig before flopping down on the couch for a snooze, dogs may walk in circles to get comfortable before lying down.

2. They’re trying to create a sense of security.

Dogs are pack animals, and they often like to have some sort of order in their environment. Walking in a circle may help them create a sense of security and stability.

A full circling allows these animals to determine where wind direction might be relevant, so they sleep facing into it when possible, which helps scent any approaching threats as well.

3. They’re marking their territory

Just like cats spray their territory to let others know it’s theirs, dogs may walk around in circles to mark their territory. Dogs often walk in circles before lying down to pee or poop as a way of marking their territory. This is especially common among male dogs.

Scent-marking is another common behavior among dogs and may explain why they walk in circles before lying down. By walking around in a circle, they are leaving their scent all over and claiming the area as their own.

4. It’s just a habit

 Like many other things dogs do, walking in circles before lying down may simply be a habit that your dog has developed over time. There’s no real reason for it, but it’s still something your dog does regularly.

5. They’re trying to get comfortable

Your dog is a natural-born bedder. He may not have the words to say it, but he’ll show you his favorite spots and make sure they’re cozy before going off for an evening’s rest, just like humans do.

Similar to why they might walk in circles before taking a nap, dogs may also do this if they’re not quite comfortable in their surroundings.

Is It Helpful For My Dog To Circle?

There’s no definitive answer, as it likely depends on the individual dog. Some dogs may walk in circles before lying down because it helps them get comfortable, while others may do it out of habit. If your dog seems to be circling excessively or doing it for no apparent reason, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any health concerns. 

Is Circling Helpful in Controlling the Body Temperature of Animals?

There is no evidence that circling helps dogs control their temperature. In fact, it’s possible that walking in circles could actually make them feel hotter if they’re already warm.

If The Circling Is Excessive, What Should I Do?

If your dog is walking in circles before lying down more than usual, there could be an underlying issue that you should consult with your veterinarian about. While it’s possible that the behavior is simply due to habit or anxiety, it’s also possible that there’s something wrong and you should get it checked out.