Why dogs always so energetic. Many pet owners were quick to label their energetic dog “hyperactive,” but is that a fair assessment of dog behavior? Is the ultra-high drive really abnormal. According to Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Small Animals, true hyperactivity in dogs is rare. Signs of hyperactivity, such as an inability to fully relax even in familiar surroundings, reactivity to routine stimuli, short attention span, and physiological signs, such as initial rapid breathing and heart rate , are likely to be absent in a typical hyperactive dog. Chances are your energetic dog is not meeting his physical, mental, and social needs on a daily basis. Dogs that have trouble calming down can be influenced by many factors, such as breed, lack of proper stimulation, or poor diet. Raising such an active dog may seem like a full-time job, but there is hope for family peace!
Why dogs always so energetic – Body Work
First, consider your dog’s exercise needs versus what he actually does on a daily basis. If you have a highly motivated dog from sporting or herding groups or even a mixed-breed dog that seems to display the same tendencies of not being able to brake, your dog will need a new one. the training plan and the coach that accompanies it is you! There’s no universal standard for dog exercise, but it’s safe to assume that if your dog is constantly on the go and can’t settle down even at the end of the day, he probably needs some more exercise than he gets.Â
Playing
You can release some of this excess energy by playing purposeful games with your dog, such as tugging and grabbing. Both of these games are great energy burners and, when played by the rules, turn into mini-exercises. If you want to take it to the next level, consider engaging your dog in sports like agility or lure racing, which are sure to tire out even the most tireless dogs. And if your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, visit a well-organized dog park to socialize with his companions in a positive way.
Why dogs always so energetic – Brain Work
Exercising your dog’s body will help calm him down, but there’s an equally important body part that needs to be exercised: your dog’s brain. Mental exercise is a great way to tire out a dog that doesn’t need an entire day or a garden the size of a national park. Dogs are athletes, so it’s not always easy to train them to exhaustion, but it’s surprisingly easy to load their brains until they beg for a break.
Something as simple as a game of clicker shaping (shaping is breaking down a desired behavior into its complementary parts) that encourages your dog to think creatively and try new things, or learning a silly new trick like rolling over would require your dog to focus and overcome frustration. It’s not always easy for dogs in a hurry. Nose work games like “find” also challenge the dog to use their senses in new and stimulating ways. Finally, play puzzle games with treats that will make your dog work for food and turn meals into a puzzle.