Are hyper dogs happy

Is Your Dog Too Hyper? 5 Tips for Hyperactive Dogs

Its one of the most commonly reported behavioral concerns of Canine Good Citizen(CGC) and AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy dog owners. The complaint is that the dog is hyper or too active.

In most cases, the problem is really that the dog owner needs some education, and the dog may need a more suitable daily schedule and exercise plan.

Here are some tips for the owner of an energetic dog that is hard to calm down.

1. Know your breed

My dog is too active and wont settle down at night when we watch television, said one dog owner who called the CGC department. After asking some questions, we learned that the dog was a Border Collie whose owners worked all day. When they came home, the dog was taken for a walk on a leash. We explained that Border Collies can run all day herding sheep and we helped the owner develop a more appropriate exercise plan for this active herding breed. For active breeds, a walk on a leash may not do the trick. Consider fetching and running games in a fenced yard or a dog park where the dog can run. If you are away from home in the daytime for long periods of time, doggie daycare may be a suitable option for your dog.

2. Provide adequate daily exercise

In AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, STAR is an acronym that stands for Socialization, Training, Activity, and a Responsible owner. Activity means exercise and in STAR classes, instructors talk to dog owners about their daily exercise plans for their puppies. CGC Evaluator Karen Vance described in the book, AKC STAR Puppy: A Positive Behavioral Approach to Puppy Training, how she had her students bring an exercise plan for their dogs to class. When Karen looked at the plan for a German Shepherd Dog who was jittery and could not focus, she said a light bulb went off. She worked with the dog owners to modify the exercise plan and within two weeks, the puppy was a different dog.

3. Teach practical skills

Once youve met the exercise needs of an active dog, functional Canine Good Citizen skills such as sit, down and stay can be used to manage your dog. When company comes and the dog cant settle, a down-stay is often just what is needed to help the dog become calm.

4. Give the dog a job

In the case of the Border Collie above, increased exercise helped a lot. But active, smart breeds can also benefit from something to do on a regular basis that involves both physical and mental activity. Performance events such as fieldwork, herding, lure coursing, and dock diving are perfect for canine athletes. AKC activities such as obedience, agility, and rally also provide the perfect combo of the physical and mental stimulation needed for the active dog.

5. Dont forget the veterinary check

If youve put an appropriate exercise plan in place for your dogs age and breed, and the dog continues to appear overactive, a veterinary check-up is in order. While most of the time, exercise, training, and activities are the issue, there are medical conditions that can cause hyperactivity. Your dogs veterinarian can do a comprehensive medical exam to rule out any problems.

How to Calm a High Energy Dog

by Victoria Schade

Many pet parents are quick to call their high-energy dog hyperactive, but is that a fair assessment of the dogs behavior? Is an over-the-top drive actually abnormal?

According to Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Small Animals (Karen Overall, 1997), true hyperactivity in dogs is actually rare. The hallmarks of hyperactivitylike the inability to fully relax even in familiar environments, reactivity to routine stimuli, a short attention span, and physiological signs like elevated baseline respiration and heart ratesprobably arent present in the typical overactive dog.

Its more likely that your high energy dog isnt having his physical, mental, and social needs met on a daily basis. Dogs who have a hard time settling down might be operating under the influence of many factors, like breed drive, a lack of the right kind of stimulation, or a poor diet. Parenting this type of active dog can feel like a full time job, but there is hope for household peace!

The following multi-level approach will help to address your high energy dogs needs from the inside out.

Work the Body

First, consider your dogs exercise requirements versus what hes actually getting on a daily basis. If you have a high-drive dog from the sporting or herding groups (picture a Border Collie), or even a mixed breed dog who seems to exhibit those same cant slow down tendencies, your dog is going to need a new workout plan and a coach to go with itthats you!

There is no universal canine exercise standard, but its a safe assumption that if your dog is in constant motion and unable to settle down even at the end of the day, he probably needs more exercise than hes getting. You can vent some of that excess energy by playing focused games with your dog, like tug and fetch. Both games are excellent energy burners, and when they are played with rules they are transformed into mini training exercises.

If you want to ramp up the play, consider getting your dog involved in dog sports like agility or lure coursing, which are bound to exhaust even the most tireless pooches. And if your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, visit a well-run dog park for some positive social interaction with his peers.

Work the Brain

Taxing your dogs body will help to calm him down, but theres an equally important body part that needs to be exercised: your dogs brain.

Mental exercise is a phenomenal way to wear out the dog who doesnt require an all-day commitment or a national park-sized yard. Dogs are athletes, so its not always easy to exercise them to the point of exhaustion, but its surprisingly easy to work their brains until theyre begging for a break. Something as simple as a shaping game with the clicker (shaping involves breaking down a desired behavior into its incremental parts), which encourages your dog to think creatively and try new things, or teaching him a silly new trick like roll over will require your dog to focus and work through frustration. This isnt always easy for busy dogs!

Games that incorporate nose work, like find it, also force a dog to tap into his senses in a new and challenging way. Finally, treat dispensing puzzle games that make your dog work for his food will turn meal times into brain-teaser times.

Instill Manners

A dog who jumps all over you when you try to clip on his leash at walk time, constantly nose bops you for attention, and barks at you when he wants his dinner might seem hyperactive, but these inappropriate behaviors actually signal a lack of manners rather than a problem with hyperactivity. Manners training will teach your dog how to engage with you so that he gets what he wants whether thats food, attention, play, or access to the outdoorsin a way that incorporates impulse control, which is often the missing link in seemingly hyperactive dogs.

The core concept in manners training is teaching your dog to say please by sitting for anything he wants. Before you throw the ball, open the door, clip on the leash, or put down the food bowl, first ask your dog to sit. The moment your dog does it, reward him with what he wants, no extra treat necessary. Your dog will soon understand that sit makes good things happen, and with consistency on your part (meaning, you always remember to require the sit before doing something for your dog) hell begin to offer the position instead of acting pushy with you.

Reward for Calm Behavior

Its tempting to tiptoe around when an over-the-top dog finally decides to rest, but its important to acknowledge those moments when hes acting appropriately and taking it easy. Some dogs learn that we only interact with them when theyre engaging in naughty behaviors, so they knock over the garbage can and steal laundry in order to get our attention, even if its angry attention.

Taking the time to connect positively with your dog when hes calm, like when hes resting in his bed or hanging out quietly near you, will encourage him to perform that behavior more often. Remember, behavior that is rewarded will be repeated! Acknowledging your dogs appropriate behavior with quiet praise and a gentle pat will help him understand that when he settles down he receives positive attention from you. This small change in your daily interactions with your dog can reap surprisingly big rewards.

Consider the Food

Its tempting to pick up a giant bag of cheap dog food at the local big box store, but what your dog eats can have a direct impact on his behavior.

Inexpensive foods are typically loaded with ingredients that your dog doesnt need, like fillers, byproducts, coloring, and sugar. Much like eating junk food can alter our moods, feeding your dog a low quality diet can impact his behavior.

Studies have drawn loose correlations between hyperactivity and certain dog food ingredients, so it makes sense to feed your dog a high quality food with pure, easy to identify ingredients, like identifiable meats (no meat byproducts) and minimal fillers and preservatives.

When is it Time for a Medical Evaluation?

Some underlying medical conditions, like metabolic disease associated with liver dysfunction, hyperthyroidism, and neurological conditions, can manifest as hyperactivity (Overall, 1997). If youre concerned about your dogs activity level, or if youve noticed a sudden change in his behavior, talk to your veterinarian and pursue a diagnostic workup.

This article was verified and edited for accuracy by Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM.

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How to Calm a Hyper Dog: 10 Proven Tips & Tricks

Does your dog jump on you, lick your face, or bite your clothes when you return home from work? While thats cute, it can become a nuisance when your adorable pup starts doing it excessively. Thats mainly the case with hyper dogs.

In such situations, you shouldnt respond in frustration and scold your pup for being too affectionate or energetic. Some dog breeds are just naturally like this, so they cant help it. Many dogs also act hyperactive to get their parents attentionit doesnt matter if its good or bad.

If youre dealing with a super-active dog, know that hyperactivity can sometimes result from an underlying health issue. So, be gentle with your little friend and take them to a vet for examination.

Remember, hyperactivity isnt always problematic. It keeps your pet happy and more fun to be around. But if this behavior is taking a toll on your peace, follow these 10 tips to calm a hyper dog without compromising their well-being:

The 10 Tips on How to Calm a Hyper Dog

1. Learn About Your Dogs Breed

First, get on the internet and learn more about your puppys breed. Since some dogs are genetically energetic, you cant possibly make them completely calm. But yes, you can train them to be less hyper and disciplined.

Some super energetic dog breeds are Border Collie, Siberian Husky, German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Jack Russell Terrier. These dogs can run and play all day long. They also dont like walking on a leash as it restricts them from fully channeling their energy out.

If you have a dog with hyperactivity in their DNA, you must take them out in a dog park or a fenced yard for fetching and running. This should be included in their daily routine. If thats impossible for you to manage, you can admit them to a doggie daycare to help your pup meet their mental and physical stimulation needs.

Exploring your pets breed will help you develop the most effective plan to manage their hyperactivity. You will see your furry friend happier and more well-behaved than before.

2. Take Them Out

If you spend most of your time away from home, its no excuse to deprive your dog of their playtime. Almost every breed requires proper mental and physical stimulation to stay active, healthy, and happy. So, as a responsible pet owner, you must dedicate an hour or so to taking your dog out for daily exercises or walk.

The easiest way to fulfill your dogs exercise needs is to take them to a nearby dog-friendly beach or park. Your pet will freely channel their energy, splashing the waves or playing with other dogs. Since these places are specifically designated for dogs, your pup will have a chance to interact with other dogs and develop social skills.

In fact, some breeds love meeting and playing with other dogs. For instance, Poodles, one of the friendliest breeds, thoroughly enjoy spending time with other dogs.

3. Keep Them Busy

You now know that fulfilling your hyper dogs physical and mental stimulation needs is the best way to keep them calm. While walking and playing sessions work for this purpose, what if you cant be around them? How will your dog channel their high energy level into something good? The answer is interactive toys.

These toys require your pets full attention and engagement, keeping them busy and productive for hours. This way, they will be tired and calm when you return home.

4. Invest in Quality Calming Dog Treats

A little trick and treat can also help you calm your hyper dog. The market is full of varying dog treats, but you cant trust all of them. Some products may have attractive packaging, yet they are filled with lots of sugar and additives that can make your dog obese in no time. Even worse, consuming these products can lead to many health issues for your furry friend.

Therefore, look for calming dental chews or sticksmade of quality, naturally-calming ingredients, such as chamomile, hemp, and Valerian root. These treats are not only healthy but super delicious. However, some dogs can be allergic to any component of these treats. So, always read the products packaging to ensure it contains no such ingredient. You should also consult a vet to get an experts recommendation.

5. Practice Crate Training

Many dog owners like to sleep and eat with their pups since they are their best friends. But sometimes, when youre not actually in the mood, such displays of affection can irritate you. This can make your dog feel left out and even aggressive and hyperactive in the worst-case scenario.

To deal with such situations, its important to crate-train your dog. Experts believe that it makes your dog peaceful and keeps their energy levels at a minimum. However, the key is to invest in a quality crate with easy entry and exit points.

If your dog isnt interested in crate training, you should try making their new home more comfortable. For instance, add a blanket, an orthopedic bed, and many toys to make the crate welcoming.

Start putting your dog in the crate multiple times a day when you are home. Then, do it before leaving home. This way, they wont feel like the crate is their punishment. Keep extending the time slowly to help your pal adjust to their new home.

Whenever you return home, you will find them sitting in the crate, playing calmly with their toys. No more aggressive jumping and licking!

6. Set a Consistent Routine

You can set a consistent routine for your furry friend to help them manage their hyperactivity. With a fixed schedule, your pup will know they cant do whatever they want. Instead, they must stick to a predictable routine every day.

Setting a routine is also a great way to make your pet disciplined.

Here is an example of what a productive day for a hyper dog must look like:

• Wake up at 9 am and go to the bathroom
• Have breakfast to get the energy for the entire day
• Spend some time meditating or relaxing their nerves
• Take them for an outside walk
• Feed them lunch and take them to the bathroom if required
• Play with them in the backyard, primarily fetching
• Allow them some time to relax and watch Netflix with you
• Dinner time and final bathroom round
• Finally, bedtime!

This routine will divide your dogs energy into different activities throughout the day. When they know the right time for playing and resting, they will likely be calmer and more relaxed.

7. Calm Them With Basic Commands

Another way to calm down a hyper dog is by teaching them basic commands through obedience training. It will help them learn to behave well, even when feeling super energetic. They must know when their parents are asking them to sit, stand up, stop barking, and come to them.

Remember, obedience training requires lots of effort from the owners side. You must act patiently and calmly, as the process is typically lengthy.

Your dog must also learn that they dont have to jump over humans excitedly or bark at guests. They should also know how to walk on a leash without causing any trouble. A well-trained dog makes a parents life way easier, regardless of if they belong to a hyperactive breed.

8. Invest in a Healthy Diet

Cost-saving is important, but it shouldnt be your priority when shopping for dog foods for your furry friend. Only a few pet parents know that diet has a significant impact on a dogs behavior, health, and mood.

In fact, a study found some connection between a dogs hyperactivity and certain ingredients in their food. Unfortunately, many products in the market include sugar, coloring, additives, and fillers. So, research thoroughly and check the products packaging before buying it for your pal.

You can also consult a professional nutritionist or vet to develop a customized diet plan for your dogs daily nutritional requirements. They will also recommend the best food brands for your furry friend.

9. Establish a Calm Home Environment

Lets be honest; you cant calm your hyperactive dog without having a peaceful environment in your home. Pets and children behave with the same energy they receive from their parents. If youre chaotic and frustrated most of the time, your pup will try to complement your vibe by reacting the same way.

Most dog breeds like to follow the leader of their herd. Since youre the leader at home, they will imitate the same way you behave. So, as a pet parent, set an example for your dog to help them learn how to control themselves and behave well, even with an intense adrenaline rush.

10. Set Timely Vet Visits

While hyperactivity is primarily a genetic or environmental factor, it can also indicate an underlying health issue. Some medical conditions can instantly increase your dogs energy levels, making it hard for them to control themselves.

So, when you observe excessive hyperactivity in your dog on a daily basis, you must consider taking them to a vet for a medical examination. You cant know if your dog is just being hyper or telling you about their discomfortonly a professional can find it out.

Frequent vet check-ups are also an excellent way to keep your furry friend happy and healthy for a long time.

Conclusion

Bringing a dog to your home is no less than a blessing. You get a companion who knows how to light up your mood after a tiring day at work. But sometimes, their hyperactivity and energetic nature become irritating, making you wonder how to calm your pup down.

You can relax your hyper dog in many ways. For example, you can crate-train them, take them out for regular walks and playing sessions, invest in quality dog food, set a consistent routine, and teach them basic commands.

With these tips, ensure to make frequent visits to your vet to keep your pet in optimal health.

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