Why Dogs Turn Around Three Times Before Lying Down?

According to American humorist Robert Benchley, a dog teaches a boy three things: fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down.

If you've ever wondered why dogs turn around several times before flopping down on the floor, the answer is simple genetics. They've been genetically programmed to trample their sleeping areas in the wild so that the grass is tamped down to make a comfortable resting place.

Although your dog have the finest dog bed money can buy, he still feels the urge to circle before lying down, even in the comfort of the modern home. It's nature at work. Nature is the reason dogs gobble their food. The most successful survivors were able to eat fast before other members of the pack could grab a share. Wild dog cousins didn't know when his next meal would come, so being the fastest gorger was a real advantage.

SOURCE: PETPLACE.COM


Books to Read:
The Dog Whisperer: Vol 2 - Solving Common Behavior Problems
The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behaviour and Interactions with People
Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar's Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life
Am I Safe? The Art & Science of Canine Behavior Assessments