Do Dogs really Ghostwalk?
Canine Trancing is a strange but ‘real’ thing. Read on…
Whilst the phenomenon is most commonly reported with Bull Terriers and Greyhounds, there are testimonies of many other breeds displaying this behaviour including Griffons, Bassets, Staffys, Pugs and Jack Russells (amongst others).
The strange movement known as Ghostwalking is displayed when something touches the dog lightly on the back.
It can be hilarious reading some owners’ descriptions about when they have first witnessed this behaviour in their dog. Ghostwalking, also known as ‘Trancing’ or the ‘Slow-Mo Walk’ is most often seen when dogs move amongst plants or beneath low hanging trees or scrubs.
Imagine your dog moving at normal speed but then, as if someone has flicked a switch, everything slows down and he/she begins to creep. It has been reported that this trance-like movement can happen simply on the way to the water bowl but usually it’s beneath a hanging tablecloth, curtains, hanging clothes or low leafy branches.
Regardless of the stimuli most dogs who ‘trance’ go back for more and repeat the behaviour beneath the provocation or may even linger a while. For this reason we’re inclined to believe they enjoy it and it doesn’t seem to take over their life. As far as the science goes there’s not very much information about it but no evidence that it’s anything harmful. Let’s face it, a bit of slo-mo walking is way less destructive than other types of canine conduct.
It’s easy to see how some folks may have mistaken this reaction for some type of focal seizure. If your dog acts ‘blissed’ under bushes or curtains let us know. Our lovely Dalmatian ghost-walks under a tree in our yard and then moves on without any sign of ill effect.
So yes, Ghostwalking is real and is a strange thing to witness. Like to see it for yourself? Check out the links below…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wylAGmm_oE&feature=emb_title
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xE3H8LwiSlE
Leah & Angela OMeara
Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)