Turning Dog Tired

The canine convention of walking in circles
Ahead of one’s sleep is genetic,
As wolves do it also, but why does it happen?
Allow me an answer poetic.

Behaviorists posit a number of reasons.
Since dogs check for danger by nose,
Perhaps they decide their position to lie in
By finding the way the wind blows.

And speaking of smelling, they might use their paw glands
For marking a spot as their own.
They also might see if the pack has lost stragglers;
Survival is tough when alone.

As long as they’re looking, they might catch a predator
Right before going to sleep.
Perhaps it’s a ritual signaling who has
The dominant pack post to keep.

The turning might help to select a position
That guards vital organs from threats.
The change in the layout might serve as a claim
To a spot that no other dog gets.

On soil, it can bring out unwanted companions
For bedtime, like insects and snakes.
Removing the topsoil exposes a layer
That’s cooler for temperature’s sake.

Or maybe dogs flatten the region for comfort,
Like fluffing a pillow to us.
Whatever the reason, unless it’s excessive,
The act doesn’t merit a fuss.