Does Your Dog Turn In Circles Constantly Before Laying Down?

This really is a common complaint and, once again, if this is your main issue, you're doing well training your dog.

The main reason a dogs exhibits this behavior is to mimmick trampling down the grass to make their bed (similar to what a deer would do).

But the reason behind this might surprise you. A dog's world is eye level. And while you might think this action makes for a softer bed, dogs are actually creating a short grass wall around themelves for protection. Notice that you'll never see a dog turning in cirles with his head up and his ears alert. His head is down so he can examine the area where he will lay down to rest to make sure it is safe.

Is this instinctual?

That depends on what you call instinct.

Yes - it's instinct if you're lookinfgat some innate force in the dog.

Why does a dog eat?

Is it instinct or survival?

It's the same question you would ask about the circling dog.

Being able to determine the difference between what drives behavior (instinct or survival) is important to know so you can properly correct or redirect that behavior to appropriate actions.

The Allison Method quickly and easily teaches you how to make these corrections -- without resorting to anger or shouting.

And the reslts are tremendous.

Imagine going anywhere with your dog perfectly behaved.

Here's what Jeff Leckwee said,