Tips and Tricks for Calming Your Hyperactive Dog
Most dogs are bundles of energy, but some take energy to a whole new level. If your dog is hyperactive, you may be at the end of your rope over how to handle him. But not to worry — the dog whisperer has the answers. Today, Dogstar blog reported on world-famous dog obedience superstar Cesar Millan’s top five tips for calming even the most hyperactive dog. Starting from the top, the best way to calm your pooch may very well be, surprisingly enough, to just ignore him:
Ignore the behavior! Dogs seek attention from you. By paying them that attention during hyperactive outbursts, you’re reinforcing the very behavior that you’re trying to eliminate. The next time your dog is jumping or nipping at you in an overexcited way, give it a try — no touch, no talk, no eye contact — and see how you fare. You might be surprised how quickly the dog settles down.
Of course, it won’t work with every dog. Some, like collies and terriers, were bred and born to complete a specific task, and fall into restlessness without a task. If your workaholic dog is bored with the pace of his luxurious pet life, it may be up to you, the owner, to create some excitement!
Give your dog a job! Having a task to focus on can help tremendously. Hyperactivity can come from psychological needs as easily as it can from physical needs. By giving your dog a job to do, you are removing him from his state of hyperactivity and redirecting his energy elsewhere. The task should have a clear beginning and end, and should never be considered a replacement for physical exercise.
Check out the article for the full list of tips, which range from the everyday (Don’t forget to take your dog on regular walks!) to the avant-garde (Doggy aromatherapy? It’s worth a try!).
