Calming down a hyperactive dog: Effective tips and training

If your dog is constantly fizzing with energy and is easy to excite, taking care of them and keeping your sanity at the same time can be a challenge! If your dog goes loopy at the sound of the doorbell or the sight of their lead, and can often be found racing around the house, getting into mischief or bouncing up and down and clamouring at you and other people they meet, the chances are that you’ve got your hands full.

Some breeds and types of dogs are certainly more prone to excitability and hyperactivity than others, such as the border collie puppies, the siberian husky puppies and other working dog breeds such as the springer spaniel puppies, and you should be aware of this before taking on a dog of these types. However, any dog large or small may be prone to hyperactivity, either as a learned behaviour or because the way that they are cared for and managed on a day to day basis is not wholly appropriate for their needs.

If you are having problems managing a hyperactive dog and wonder if there is anything that you can do to make life easier, read on to learn more.

Training to Channel Energy

A dog that is unruly or out of control may appear hyperactive because they simply do not understand what is expected of them. Basic training commands can be a great way to channel some of your dog's energy into engaging their mind and provide essential structure.

Start with simple command training such as sit, stay, and come. Keeping training sessions short but frequent will engage your dog's brain without overwhelming them. Clear, consistent cues and positive reinforcement help build good habits, reducing erratic behaviour.

Proper Exercise for Hyperactive Dogs

To combat hyperactivity, ensure your dog is getting enough physical activity tailored to their breed, age, and size. Long walks of 30-60 minutes, preferably split into morning and evening sessions, help burn off excess energy that might otherwise manifest as hyperactivity indoors.

Including aerobic activities like playing fetch, running, or swimming can also be highly beneficial. After exercise, a well-exercised dog will often rest calmly rather than seeking new excitement immediately.

Consider Your Dog's Diet

Feeding your dog a diet suited to their energy levels and life stage is important. For example, an active working dog requires more calories and energy, whereas a sedentary pet dog in a home environment may become overly energetic if fed a high calorie diet.

Choose high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's needs and avoid diets rich in additives or sugars that might stimulate hyperactivity.

Addressing Learned Hyperactive Behaviours

Some hyperactivity comes from learned responses to triggers like excitement at the doorbell or the prospect of a walk. Observe if particular incidents prompt your dog’s energetic behaviour and work to modify these responses.

Use calming cues and commands when approaching triggers, rewarding calm behaviour to reinforce it. Patience and consistency are key in changing entrenched habits.

Engage with Canine Sports for Mental and Physical Stimulation

Canine sports, such as agility, offer excellent outlets that challenge both mind and body. These activities can help focus your dog's energy constructively while strengthening your bond and improving training compliance.

Even if not participating in competitions, regular games that simulate such sports provide mental fatigue which helps alleviate hyperactivity.

Calm Your Dog with Canine Massage

Massage for dogs can have a calming, soothing effect similar to that experienced by humans. This simple tactile therapy can be done at home when your dog is receptive, such as after exercise.

Begin with gentle strokes on the face and head, then proceed to softly rub the ears, neck, and across the body. This helps relax muscles and signal comfort, reducing overexcitement.

Age and Hyperactivity

Young dogs and puppies naturally have more energy and tend to be more hyperactive. Understandably, many dogs will mellow with age, particularly around seven to eight years old. However, you can manage their energy and behaviour proactively at any age with the tips above.

Being patient and meeting their needs for exercise, mental engagement, and calm interaction helps ensure a happy, balanced dog throughout their life.