German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. But have you ever noticed your German Shepherd circling before lying down or even when they’re just hanging out? This behavior might seem strange, but it’s actually quite common and rooted in instinct, breed characteristics, or even underlying health issues. Let’s explore the reasons behind this curious circling behavior in German Shepherds.
Instinct and Ancestry
Circling is an instinctive behavior inherited from their wolf ancestors. In the wild, wolves would circle to flatten grass or snow to create a comfortable and safe sleeping area. This would also help them check for potential threats. Even though your German Shepherd has a cozy bed, this instinct remains strong.
Breed-Specific Traits
German Shepherds were bred to herd and guard sheep. Herding involves circling the flock to keep them together and protect them from predators. This ingrained herding instinct might explain why your German Shepherd circles, even when there’s no flock to manage.
Comfort and Preparation
Circling can be a way for your German Shepherd to make their sleeping area more comfortable. By circling, they might be trying to:
- Adjust the temperature: Flattening the ground can help them find a cooler or warmer spot.
- Clear debris: They might be trying to remove any rocks, sticks, or other uncomfortable objects.
- Create a sense of security: Circling allows them to survey their surroundings before settling down.
Communication and Attention
Sometimes, circling is simply a way for your German Shepherd to communicate with you or seek attention. They might be trying to tell you they need something, such as food, water, or a walk. If your dog starts circling and you’re not sure why, try to assess their needs and see if you can identify what they’re trying to communicate.
Anxiety and Compulsive Behavior
In some cases, circling can be a sign of anxiety or compulsive behavior. If your German Shepherd is circling excessively, especially in conjunction with other symptoms like pacing, restlessness, or increased vocalization, it could be a sign of an underlying issue.
Common causes of anxiety-related circling:
- Lack of Exercise and Mental Stimulation: German Shepherds are intelligent and energetic dogs. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they can become bored, anxious, and frustrated, which can lead to compulsive behaviors like circling.
- Separation Anxiety: German Shepherds are prone to separation anxiety. If they’re left alone for extended periods, they may start circling as a way to cope with their distress.
- Environmental Stressors: Loud noises, new environments, or changes in routine can trigger anxiety in German Shepherds, leading to circling behavior.
- Past Trauma: A traumatic experience can cause lasting anxiety and manifest as compulsive circling.
Medical Reasons
Circling can also be a symptom of various medical conditions. If your German Shepherd suddenly starts circling, or if the behavior is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Potential medical causes of circling:
- Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (Doggy Dementia): This condition causes deposits in the brain similar to those found in humans, leading to symptoms like pacing, restlessness, and circling.
- Brain Tumors: Tumors can cause neurological changes that result in repetitive behaviors like circling.
- Ear Infections: Bacterial, fungal, or parasitic ear infections can affect the balance center and lead to circling, head tilting, and restlessness.
- Idiopathic Vestibular Disease: This condition, common in older dogs, can cause balance issues and circling. Most dogs improve within a few days, but some may experience lasting effects like a head tilt.
- Liver Disease or Abnormality: A diseased or damaged liver can cause neurological issues, resulting in pacing, circling, head pressing, and behavioral changes.
- Other Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic diseases and parasitic infections can also cause neurological issues that lead to circling.
How to Address Circling Behavior
The approach to addressing circling behavior in your German Shepherd depends on the underlying cause. Here are some steps you can take:
- Consult a Veterinarian: Rule out any potential medical issues by scheduling a check-up with your vet. They can perform a thorough examination and run tests to identify any underlying health problems.
- Assess and Adjust Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Make sure your German Shepherd is getting enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. This can include daily walks, runs, playtime, puzzle toys, and training sessions.
- Address Anxiety: If anxiety is the root cause, identify the triggers and work to reduce your dog’s stress levels. This might involve creating a calm and predictable environment, using calming aids like pheromone diffusers, or consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
- Behavioral Training: Implement behavioral training techniques to redirect your dog’s circling behavior. Teach them alternative behaviors, such as lying down or settling on a mat, and reward them for performing those behaviors instead of circling.
- Environmental Enrichment: Ensure your dog has plenty of space to move around and explore. Provide them with comfortable bedding, toys, and opportunities for social interaction.
- Dietary Changes: If your vet suspects dietary issues, they may recommend changes to your dog’s diet to help remedy the problem.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage anxiety or other underlying medical conditions. Your vet can prescribe appropriate medications based on your dog’s specific needs.
- Professional Help: If the circling behavior persists despite your efforts, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist. They can help you identify the underlying cause of the behavior and develop a tailored treatment plan.
The German Shepherd Personality
Understanding the typical traits of a German Shepherd can lend insight to certain behaviors.
- Loyal: The breed is known to be extremely loyal, often forming a strong bond with their family.
- Intelligent: German Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable, excelling in various tasks.
- Protective: They have a natural protective instinct, making them excellent guard dogs.
- Energetic: German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
- Vocal: German Shepherds are also known to be loud, barking to alert or guard.
Conclusion
Circling in German Shepherds can be a normal, instinctive behavior, or it can be a sign of an underlying issue. By understanding the potential causes of this behavior and taking appropriate steps to address it, you can help your German Shepherd live a happy, healthy, and well-balanced life.