How to feed a hyperactive dog: expert dietary advice

Dogs with naturally high energy levels need balanced care to manage their vitality well, and feeding plays a key role in this. Differentiating between a lively dog and a truly hyperactive one is important, as the latter may struggle to settle, constantly seeking stimulation, with a higher resting heart rate.

If you suspect your dog is hyperactive, consulting your vet early is wise. They can assess your dog's health, conduct tests if needed, and advise on dietary adjustments tailored to your pet's needs.

Consult Your Vet First

A vet visit helps uncover specific causes of hyperactivity, such as allergies, food intolerances, or underlying medical conditions. Your vet may recommend blood tests or behavioural assessments and can guide you on suitable dietary changes or specialised nutrition plans to soothe your dog’s behaviour.

Feed a Balanced, Natural Diet

Many commercial dog foods contain preservatives, artificial colours, fillers, and flavourings, which could trigger sensitivities or exacerbate hyperactivity. A more natural diet focusing on whole foods — lean meats, vegetables, and selected grains — may help calm your dog.

You might consider home-cooked meals following veterinary advice or a BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet consisting of raw meaty bones and vegetables. This approach avoids unnecessary additives and better replicates a natural ancestral diet.

Manage Carbohydrate Intake

Carbohydrates in typical commercial diets, such as grains, rice, or potatoes, can cause blood sugar fluctuations. These spikes may contribute to bursts of hyperactive behaviour. Reducing or adjusting carbohydrate levels to slow-release sources can encourage steadier energy and calmer behaviour.

Adjust Protein Levels Appropriately

Protein is vital, coming from meat, fish, and eggs. Highly active or working dogs may require more protein, but dogs with less intense lifestyles can become overly energetic with excessive protein. It’s beneficial to adapt protein amounts gradually and observe your dog’s energy to find the right balance that suits their life stage and activity.

Limit Sugary Treats and Scraps

Sugars, including hidden ones in treats and table scraps, contribute to rapid blood sugar changes that may cause hyperactivity episodes. Choose treats carefully, prioritising those low in sugar and free from artificial additives. Be cautious with giving your pet human food leftovers, avoiding sugary or processed items.

Ensure Food Matches Age and Life Stage

Different life stages require tailored nutrition. Puppy and juvenile diets contain higher protein and calories to support growth, while mature dog foods are calorie-conscious to accommodate lower activity levels. Choosing age-appropriate food helps maintain balanced energy to avoid stimulating hyperactive tendencies unnecessarily.

Feed Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Dividing daily rations into smaller portions given several times a day supports stable blood sugar levels and steady energy. This reduces spikes that might trigger restlessness and helps maintain calmness between activities.

Include Brain-Healthy Nutrients

Including ingredients rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and tryptophan in your dog’s diet can support brain function and serotonin production, promoting calming effects. Salmon and oils rich in these nutrients are often beneficial additives, improving behaviour and overall well-being.

Monitor and Adjust Feeding

Observe your dog’s behaviour and condition closely as you adapt their diet. Tailoring portions, protein, and carbohydrate levels in response to activity and lifestyle changes helps optimise energy without overstimulation. Always avoid overfeeding, which can worsen hyperactivity.

Combine Diet with Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Diet alone is not a cure; hyperactivity often improves most when appropriate exercise and mental challenges accompany nutrition adjustments. Daily walks, play sessions, and training help expend energy constructively and complement dietary efforts.

When to Seek Professional Behavioural Help

If hyperactivity persists despite dietary and lifestyle changes, or if new sudden behaviours appear, consult a qualified behaviourist along with your vet. Some hyperactivity cases may stem from medical or psychological issues needing specialist intervention beyond nutrition.

In summary, feeding a hyperactive dog successfully involves consulting your vet, choosing balanced, additive-free nutrition suited to your dog’s unique needs, managing carbohydrate and protein levels carefully, and supporting with brain-nourishing nutrients. Combined with regular exercise and observation, this holistic approach helps your energetic friend enjoy a calmer, happier life.