There is a common misconception regarding dogs being hyperactive. If a dog spins in circles or jumps up and down multiple times a day, owners interpret this as hyperactivity. However, in some cases, the issue is not with the dog, but with the owner.
Every breed responds differently to stimuli, and they need a different level of exercise. Knowing many details about your dog’s breed can make all the difference.
If you are worried about your dog’s level of energy, you can try these three tips to make your dog more relaxed.
3 Ways to Calm Your Hyperactive Dog
Teach Your Dog Tricks
You can stimulate your dog both mentally and physically. Mental exercise is a great way to engage your dog and wear him out. It’s easier to work their brains, unlike their body, where it might take a while before they get tired.
There are a few simple ways to train that beautiful dog brain. Teach them new tricks like rolling over or giving you their paw. This will stimulate your dog’s creativity, creating a stronger bond between you both.
There are also games that your dog will immediately love, like finding different objects. Asking “where is the ball?” and giving him a treat when he achieves his mission is one of the easiest tricks.
Reward Calm Behavior
It’s important to acknowledge when your dog is acting calm. It’s better to connect with your dog over positive behavior rather than when it is behaving poorly. If you often acknowledge negative behavior, your dog might understand that to get your attention, he needs to do something awful like chew your shoes.
When you see your dog resting or being quiet, reward him with a treat. This way, your dog will understand that if he sits still, he will receive rewards. It might seem like a small thing, but your dog likes your attention and will repeat quiet behavior.
Daily Exercise
If you consider your dog hyperactive, it could be because he doesn’t get enough daily exercise. You also need to take into consideration your dog’s breed. For example, pugs don’t require as much action as other breeds.
If you have a highly energetic dog from the herding groups, such as a Border Collie, he will need plenty of exercise to slow down.
There is no straightforward way to relax your dog, but the most common games that burn excessive energy are fetching and tug of war. Both exercises are engaging for you and your dog, and they are effective energy burners.
If you do not have enough time to take your dog out to consume his energy, it’s wise to have pet damage coverage. Sometimes our pawed friends like to chew the furniture to get rid of that excess energy. They also tend to run around the house by themselves to tire themselves out, and accidents will happen, like breaking vases and other valuables.
These are a few ways you can try to make your dog more relaxed. If you are worried your dog’s energy level is way too high, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.