High- Energy Dogs

I know a lot of pet owners out there have dogs with way too much energy. Some vets call them hyperactive. I call them high- energy!

Is your dog full of boundless energy and bouncing off the wall? Then you must have a high-energy dog who’s bouncy personality can be a handful, quite a challenge and even more tiresome to watch. Unfortunately high-energy dogs do not come with a snooze button, if life were only that easy. But I have a few tips to calm that overly energetic dog.

It is important to remember that a high energy dog has boundless energy and he needs a healthy, positive outlet for his energy. Take your dog on long walks or turn him loose in a fenced yard or other area where he can run and expend his excess energy. Consider working out with your dog. For example, if you jog you could take your dog running with you.

Trying setting up your dog with a dog- play date. Having another dog to romp around and play with can give your high-energy dog an outlet for his boundless energy. By giving him a friend you also give him someone to keep him company.

Make sure your dog receives his needed vaccinations. The distemper vaccine tends to reduce hyperactivity in most dogs. As always, keep up with your Veterinarian appointments.

Try to create a calm living home environment. Pets often react to their environment. They can also react to the emotions of their human family members. If your household is loud, boisterous and energetic your dog may be behaving appropriately to his surroundings. Try creating a more quiet, calm environment and see how your dog reacts.

Soothe your high-energy dog with soft music and/or nature sounds. Although this may not work with every sound, it does seem to have a beneficial effect on some dogs. Try classical melodies, the sound of soft rain, a waterfall or even the rhythm of a heartbeat to bring about a calming effect. I have also been told that a fan or air conditioning can have the same effect.

Another common and important potential cure is to have the dog take obedience training. Try to learn the basic dog training commands and teach your dog to obey simple commands. Be patient while working to train your dog but if your pet proves difficult to train consider consulting a professional trainer or taking your dog to obedience school. Even the most high-energy dogs will learn proper behavior if taught with love and patience.

The final tactic is distraction. Just like a crying baby, try to refocus your dog by offering a toy to his divert attention. His favorite toy or treat should do the trick to keep him calm and busy for hours. Use this time to do something for yourself.