Question

fix the two words that are used incorrectly. before my dog would lay down, he would often paw at his chosen spot and precede to circle the area. this ritual is similar to the behavior displayed by wild dogs when digging shelters.

Explanation:

• "lay" is incorrect. The correct form is "lie" as it means to recline. "Lay" is a transitive verb (e.g., lay an egg).
• "precede" is incorrect. The correct word is "proceed" which means to continue or go on. "Precede" means to come before.

Answer:

• Replace "lay" with "lie".
• Replace "precede" with "proceed".