This entry was posted on 2015-05-06 by Schalk.

This behaviour is said to have began in pre-systolic times. Wild dogs and wolfs found this to be a very practical or even life saving technique. The dogs would travel together in packs and sleep out in the open. To ensure a good nights rest they would make their own beds, by walking in circles on grass and vegetation. Walking in a circle would allow the dog to flatten the grass and remove any insects or snakes that may be present in its spot.

Circling may also have a social element to it. Wild dog and wolf packs have a very strict social hierarchy. For protection and warmth the pack will sleep together in a tight circle. In this sense circling could be a way in which these animals mark their sleeping space and establish a spot in the circle.

Another perspective is that of John Bradshaw an anthrozoologist and author of “Dog Sense.” He says that if a dog gets a reaction from its owner when it spins in a circle, like a pat on the nose, the dog will tend to repeat the action.

Domesticated dogs may have adapted to living with humans and taken well to training but their wild ancestors survival instincts are still retained.