Most dogs are very spunky with lots of energy prancing with joy everywhere they go. But sometimes, these levels of energy are not normal and may pose behavioural problems in your dogs. If you have a dog that is hyperactive, it is important for you to train them to be with society.
While this may not be an easy task, you can regularly carry out different practices that will address and condition their aggressive behaviour and will help them calm down.
Here are ten tips for you to follow to keep that behaviour under control:
- It is important to address their needs:
So here is the thing- when you first begin to notice your dog’s sudden spike in energy, you might want to consider what could have caused it. Maybe it was the fact that you did not give him enough attention and now he is just seeking it.
Or, he just needs some more activity in his life say, exercise or another doggy friend to play with. Whatever the case, firstly find out the reason. It will become easier to deal with the problem.
- Negative reinforcements for being violent:
Sometimes hyperactivity will lead your dog to become violent and aggressive and in the process, they may unintentionally end up hurting others around them. In order to bring that under control, you need to be firm with him and give in some negative reinforcements.
For example, if he begins to be hyperactive before going out for a walk, instead of tolerating his hyperactivity, you can firmly ask him to sit and place him on a leash to curb his jumping nature.
- Positive Reinforcements for desirable behaviour
If your dog behaves in a desirable manner, give him a reward so that he understands what is expected of him. For example, if your dog is calm and listens to what you have to say then, give a little treat or may be the food he loves most to show your appreciation.
For example, if you tell your dog “Lucy be a good dog and leave it”. And if Lucy adheres to your command and leaves the object at the question, give her a treat.
- Keeping things constant:
Okay now, this is a little hard to practice because we love our canines so much but, a necessary step to take.
Keep things constant with your dog. Meaning throughout a particular time period, reinforce the behaviour that you want him to carry out.
For example, you can scold him if he is hyperactive or praise him is he is a good boy. Whatever you do, keep it constant. And also, make sure all the other “humans” in the house do it too.
- Ignore the hyperactivity:
Sometimes, dogs get hyperactive just so that you can give them some kind of extra attention. This may include jumping at you over excitedly. Ignore this kind of behaviour- it may be hard, but, just do it. It will make him settle down quickly. Because he is apparently not getting what he wants.
- Get rid of their boredom:
A dog often gets hyperactive because he is bored and has so much of energy stored that he wants to let it all out. Remember that this kind of hyperactivity has more to do with the mind (as in psychology) than the body. Give them something to do- any kind of responsibility.
Maybe you can ask him to keep an eye on something at home or even ask him to carry a bag on your regular walks. Hence, distracting him, in that way your dog will focus on your commands rather than being hyperactive.
Taking your dog out for long runs, vigorous walks, swimming or any other form of activity, you can help him release the energy hence, tiring him out and at the same time, addressing his hyperactivity issues.
- Teach him signs:
Teaching dogs signs is very important- for their own sake. An example would be, before letting your dog run out of the house, ask him to wait for you first.
Talk to him softly and practice this kind of behaviour before his meals, while with other people, before sleeping etc. This will ensure that your dog looks at you for a green signal before doing something.
- Aromatherapy:
Like humans, scents have a calming effect on dogs. They have an extremely soothing effect on your pet’s nerves. You can consider the smell of Lavender- like humans, it also helps dogs.
- Do not show him your negative behaviour:
Dogs tend to look up to their masters a lot and if they see you getting excited- showing signs of irritation or frustration, they might mirror your behaviour.
High emotions in you will lead your dog to become more hyper or even anxious and this will, in turn, make it increasingly difficult for him to calm down.
- Let them be psychologically stimulated and responsible:
One of the best things we can do for our dogs is to teach them to take responsibility just like all the other members of the family.
Here are some of the things that you can teach your dog:
- To fetch the morning paper
- To bring in empty bowls after they have finished eating ( you can train them to do it too)
- To fetch their own leash and also your walking shoes before you take them out for a walk.
Playing fetch is always a stimulation, try something new and play a game of treasure hunt- hide your dog’s most “desired” treat once in a while and let him find it with his nose of course.
Well, these are just some of the things you can do in order to make your dog feel appreciated and responsible. There are certainly many other ways and the possibilities are simply endless.
There you go- ten steps that you can take in order to calm that energetic pooch of yours.
But, keep this in mind, getting the desired behaviour and completely training a dog never comes easy. You will have to not only be extremely patient but, also very committed to the cause. While it may be testing for us, in the end, the bonding and relationship that you have with your canine friend will always be worth it.
About the Author:
This is a guest post contribute by Feedfond. They have a versatile team of content writers who provides contents to simplify lives. Dog is one of their specialisations. More informative articles on dogs can be found on their website.
