Dog Trainer Explains Why Dogs Turn in Circles Before Lying Down
(fotografixx / Getty Images)
Cole Reeves is a Pit Bull lover, advocate, and dog dad to more than 100 rescued Pitties, so he knows a thing or two about dogs. In this video, he explains why pups often turn in two or three circles before lying down, and the final reason warmed our hearts.
Circling before settling down is instinctive behavior. Reeves explains that when dogs slept outdoors, they would circle to flatten the grass and clear away anything hiding underneath it. They also sniff the air to determine whether anything has changed since earlier in the day. He then challenges us to watch our own dogs tonight and see how they position themselves when they finally lie down. He’s willing to bet they’ll settle with their backs facing us, and the reason why will make dog parents everywhere smile.
We’ll admit that the fourth reason brought a tear to our eye. Our dog, a Pit Bull mix, always sleeps with her back toward us, but we never realized it until Reeves pointed it out. Even when she’s resting, she’s protecting us; that’s her showing us how much she loves us!
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Why Dogs Circle Before Lying Down
One commenter started quite an argument when they shared, “Completely wrong, everything. The dog does this to protect its stomach from predators. It is scientifically proven.” We think they may have meant that pups curl up to protect their stomachs, which is true.
However, the circling itself has nothing to do with protecting their stomachs. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, dogs circle for the reasons Reeves mentioned. Curling up in what is known as the “donut” position is more about regulating body temperature.
“Wild dogs in colder climates circled to wind themselves into tight balls to conserve personal body heat. The tighter the tuck, the warmer the dog. In addition, other pack members gathered in a tight circle to share body heat. So, in cold or hot climates, dogs had a biological reason for turning around before bedding down.”
Whether they circle once or five times, it’s fascinating to see how much of their wild instincts our dogs still carry with them!
Related: Sleeping American Bully Starts Snoring Like a Grown Man
This story was originally published by Paw Nation on Oct 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Paw Nation as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: Nature