Leanne James 
How to Calm a Hyper Dog Naturally
How to Calm a Hyper Dog Naturally
Gentle Strategies for Managing Your Energetic Canine Companion
Does your dog seem to have an endless supply of energy that leaves you exhausted? Hyperactivity in dogs can be challenging for any pet owner, but there are effective natural approaches to help your canine companion find their calm.
Understanding the root causes of your dog's high energy and implementing targeted strategies can transform your hyperactive pet into a more balanced, relaxed companion without resorting to medication or harsh training methods.
Did You Know?
Many behaviors labeled as hyperactivity are actually normal canine energy levels that haven't been properly channeled. Most dogs simply need appropriate outlets for their natural instincts and energy.
Quick Navigation
Understanding the Causes of Hyperactivity
Did You Know?
True clinical hyperactivity in dogs is rare. What most owners perceive as hyperactivity is usually a combination of breed traits, insufficient exercise, and lack of mental stimulation.
Common Causes of High Energy
Identifying the root cause of your dog's hyperactivity is the first step toward finding an effective solution.
Breed Characteristics
Working breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Terriers are genetically programmed for high activity levels.
Insufficient Exercise
Dogs who don't get adequate physical activity often develop pent-up energy that manifests as hyperactivity.
Lack of Mental Stimulation
Boredom is a major contributor to hyper behavior. Intelligent breeds especially need mental challenges.
Youthful Energy
Puppies and young dogs naturally have more energy and may not yet have learned impulse control.
Environmental and Health Factors
Sometimes hyperactivity stems from environmental triggers or underlying health issues.
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Diet | High-carbohydrate or low-quality diets can contribute to energy spikes |
| Stress & Anxiety | Some dogs display hyper behavior when anxious or overstimulated |
| Lack of Routine | Inconsistent schedules can create uncertainty and excitable behavior |
| Medical Conditions | Thyroid issues or other health problems can sometimes cause hyperactivity |
| Overstimulation | Too much excitement without calm periods can create a cycle of hyperactivity |
| Lack of Training | Dogs who haven't learned calm behaviors don't know how to settle |
Important Note
If your dog's hyperactivity appears suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, excessive thirst, or behavioral changes, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical causes.
Most Common Hyperactive Behaviors
Understanding which behaviors your dog exhibits can help tailor your approach.
Exercise Solutions for Hyper Dogs
Key Insight
A tired dog is a good dog. Proper exercise is the most effective way to reduce hyperactivity, but it needs to be the right type and duration for your specific dog.
Effective Exercise Strategies
Not all exercise is created equal when it comes to calming hyper dogs.
Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on predictability. Establish regular exercise times to help regulate their energy levels.
Adequate Duration
Most hyper dogs need 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, not just a quick walk around the block.
High-Intensity Activities
Running, swimming, or fetch provide more exhaustion than leisurely walks.
Breed-Appropriate Exercise
Herding breeds may need chasing games, while retrievers need fetching activities.
Exercise Ideas by Energy Level
Tailor activities to your dog's specific needs and capabilities.
| Activity | Best For |
|---|---|
| Running/Jogging | High-energy breeds with good stamina |
| Swimming | Excellent low-impact exercise for all dogs |
| Fetch Variations | Dogs who love retrieving; can be high-intensity |
| Agility Training | Intelligent breeds needing mental and physical challenge |
| Hiking | Dogs who enjoy exploration and varied terrain |
| Play Dates | Social dogs who enjoy canine companionship |
Exercise Tip
Combine physical exercise with training by incorporating commands during walks or play. Ask for a sit before throwing a ball or practice stays during fetch to engage your dog's brain while tiring their body.
Daily Exercise Recommendations
These guidelines can help you determine if your dog is getting enough activity.
Mental Stimulation for Calmness
Did You Know?
Fifteen minutes of mental stimulation can be as tiring for your dog as one hour of physical exercise. Engaging your dog's brain is crucial for managing hyperactivity.
Brain Games and Enrichment
Mental exercise helps satisfy your dog's natural instincts and reduces boredom-related hyperactivity.
Food Puzzles
Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys make dogs work for their meals, providing mental challenge.
Nose Work
Hide treats around your home or yard and encourage your dog to find them using their sense of smell.
Training Sessions
Short, positive training sessions teach new skills while mentally exhausting your dog.
Novel Experiences
New walking routes, different toys, or unfamiliar (safe) environments provide mental stimulation.
DIY Enrichment Ideas
You don't need expensive toys to provide mental stimulation.
| Activity | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Muffin Tin Game | Place treats in a muffin tin, cover with tennis balls |
| Frozen Treats | Freeze kibble in water or broth for prolonged enjoyment |
| Snuffle Mat | Hide treats in a fabric mat for foraging fun |
| Treasure Hunt | Hide treats in increasingly difficult locations |
| Name Recognition | Teach your dog the names of their toys |
| Obstacle Course | Create a simple course using household items |
Mental Stimulation Tip
Rotate your dog's toys rather than leaving them all out at once. This keeps toys novel and interesting, providing more mental stimulation with the same number of toys.
Effectiveness of Different Mental Exercises
Some activities provide more mental exhaustion than others.
Calming Techniques and Environment
Important Consideration
Some dogs become hyperactive when overstimulated. Learning to recognize your dog's threshold and providing quiet time is as important as providing activity.
Creating a Calm Environment
Your dog's surroundings significantly impact their ability to relax.
Designated Quiet Space
Create a specific area with a comfortable bed where your dog can retreat when overwhelmed.
Reduce Environmental Stressors
Minimize loud noises, chaotic activity, or too many visitors if these trigger hyperactivity.
Calming Music
Classical music or specially designed dog relaxation music can promote calmness.
Consistent Routine
Dogs feel more secure with predictable feeding, walking, and play schedules.
Relaxation Techniques
Teach your dog how to switch off and relax.
| Technique | How to Implement |
|---|---|
| Capturing Calmness | Reward naturally occurring calm behaviors with treats |
| Relaxation Protocol | Systematic training program teaching dogs to relax on cue |
| Massage | Gentle massage can lower heart rate and promote relaxation |
| TTouch Method | Specific circular touches that can reduce anxiety and hyperactivity |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | Weighted blankets or gentle pressure can have calming effect |
| Settle Command | Teach a specific cue that means "relax in your spot" |
Calming Tip
Practice the "settle" command when your dog is naturally tired, such as after exercise. This helps them associate the command with the physical state of relaxation.
Natural Remedies and Supplements
Important Safety Note
Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or remedies to your dog's routine, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication.
Dietary Considerations
What your dog eats can significantly impact their energy levels and behavior.
High-Quality Protein
Ensure your dog's food contains quality protein sources for sustained energy.
Complex Carbohydrates
Choose foods with whole grains and vegetables rather than simple carbs that can cause energy spikes.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in fish oil, these support brain health and can help moderate behavior.
Adequate Feeding Schedule
Some dogs do better with multiple small meals rather than one large meal.
Natural Calming Supplements
Several natural supplements may help promote calmness in hyperactive dogs.
| Supplement | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|
| L-Theanine | Amino acid that promotes relaxation without sedation |
| Chamomile | Gentle herb with mild sedative properties |
| Valerian Root | Natural relaxant that can help with restlessness |
| CBD Oil | May help reduce anxiety and promote calm (consult your vet) |
| Passionflower | Herbal remedy for nervousness and hyperactivity |
| Probiotics | Gut health impacts behavior; probiotics support healthy digestion |
Supplement Safety
Natural doesn't always mean safe for all dogs. Start with small doses, monitor your dog's response, and always purchase from reputable manufacturers with third-party testing.
Training Tips for Calm Behavior
Did You Know?
Dogs don't automatically know how to settle in human homes. We need to actively teach them what calm behavior looks like and reward it when it occurs naturally.
Essential Training Techniques
Specific training approaches can help hyper dogs learn self-control.
Impulse Control Games
Teach "wait" for food, doors, and toys to build self-control.
Capture Calm Moments
Keep treats handy to reward naturally occurring calm behavior throughout the day.
Structured Settling
Use leashes or gates to enforce calm periods after exercise.
Default Behaviors
Train your dog to default to calm behaviors like sitting or lying down.
Training Games for Self-Control
These games teach your dog to control their impulses.
| Game | How to Play |
|---|---|
| It's Yer Choice | Teach dog to resist grabbing treats until given permission |
| Leave It | Progressive training to ignore tempting items |
| Wait at Doors | Practice patience before going through doorways |
| Stay with Duration | Gradually increase how long your dog maintains a stay |
| Calm Greetings | Reward four-on-the-floor when guests arrive |
| Mat Training | Teach your dog to go to their mat and relax on cue |
Training Tip
Keep training sessions short (3-5 minutes) and frequent rather than long and infrequent. Hyper dogs often have shorter attention spans, and multiple short sessions prevent frustration.
Key Takeaways
Calming a hyper dog requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both physical and mental needs. The most effective strategy combines:
- Adequate physical exercise tailored to your dog's breed and energy level
- Daily mental stimulation through training, games, and enrichment
- Teaching and rewarding calm behavior through specific protocols
- Creating a predictable routine and calm environment
- Considering natural supplements after veterinary consultation
- Implementing impulse control training to build self-regulation
- Being patient and consistent with your approach
Remember that most hyperactive dogs are simply expressing natural energy that hasn't been properly channeled. With the right approach, you can help your dog find balance while strengthening your bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some high-energy dogs, particularly working breeds, seem to have endless stamina. The issue might be that you're only addressing physical exercise without providing adequate mental stimulation. Try incorporating more brain games, nose work, and training sessions. Also, ensure the exercise is sufficiently intense - a leisurely walk won't tire out a high-drive dog the way running, swimming, or intense fetch sessions will. Finally, some dogs need to be taught how to settle, as they don't naturally switch off even when tired.
Yes, certain breeds are genetically predisposed to higher energy levels. Working breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Jack Russell Terriers were developed for jobs requiring endurance and mental sharpness. Sporting breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Springer Spaniels also tend toward high activity levels. However, this doesn't mean these breeds can't learn to be calm indoors - it means they require appropriate outlets for their energy and intelligence to prevent problem behaviors.
Absolutely. Diets high in simple carbohydrates and low-quality fillers can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes that contribute to erratic energy levels. Some dogs may also react to artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Consider switching to a high-quality food with animal protein as the first ingredient, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Some owners find that limited ingredient diets or novel protein sources help if food sensitivities are contributing to behavioral issues.
This common issue is often excitement-based rather than true hyperactivity. Management strategies include: exercising your dog thoroughly before expected guests arrive, teaching and practicing a "go to your mat" command, having guests ignore your dog until calm, keeping your dog on leash during greetings, and providing a stuffed Kong or chew to redirect excitement. You can also train an alternative behavior like "sit" for greetings and reward heavily for calm behavior when visitors enter.
References and Further Readings
You May Want to Know
About the Author
