Hyperactive dogs seem to have boundless energy. A dog’s overexcitement can be a problem for the animal itself but also for its owner.
Let’s find out how to calm down Fido through these 7 games for hyperactive dogs. First, though, let’s learn more about the symptoms of an exuberant dog.
How to recognize a dog’s hyperactivity?
In most cases, we humans have a hard time keeping up with the normal activity levels of our pets.
Most hyperactive dog problems simply stem from race and from personality. So it’s crucial to take note of your lifestyle, understand a dog’s breed and family history before adopting one.
Identifying a hyperactive dog is easy enough. The animal squirms a lot, is easily distracted and has a hard time staying calm even in quiet environments.
In addition, some specimens also have the following symptoms:
Not to be confused with the occasional excessive excitement, which is completely normal.
Most of our four-legged friends get overly feisty at times. This could be inappropriate under certain circumstances and become a problem if Fido is unable to bring his arousal levels down.
Tricks and games for hyperactive dogs
And here we are! To keep our tireless Fido at bay, let’s take a look at these tricks to calm our tail-wagging friend.
When playing the following games for hyperactive dogs, avoid making quick movements or high-pitched sounds, which can easily excite the pet. Instead, move slowly, speak softly, and take deep breaths—it’s also very relaxing for both of you.
Below is our selection of the top 7 games for hyperactive dogs.
1. Reward rest
When your dog expresses calm in a normally exciting situation, give him a treat in the form of a prize snack.
Conversely, if your dog is excited, ignore it. Teach him that rest pays off. When you get the dog to calm down, and it does, give him a prize.
Dogs quickly learn that lying down causes treats to appear, so you’ll most likely notice an increase in your tailed friend’s quiet demeanor!
2. Ignore it when it serves
Teaching dogs to ignore something they want is extremely helpful. In this activity, your dog learns to control his behavior to get the treat.
Hold a tidbit in your closed hand and place your hand right next to your dog’s mouth. At first he will try to get the treat out of your hand by licking it. The moment Fido leaves your hand, open it and give him the treat.
After a few sessions, you will notice that he will sit still and refuse to touch the hand that holds the delicious morsel. He’s learned that ignoring your hand brings up the candy. Always reward him by giving him the treat.
3. The game of fetch
If your dog likes to fetch a ball or other small object, play with him as often as possible. It’s great exercise for the dog and you don’t have to join in the training!
4. Dog sports
There are so many dog sports to choose from; you and your pet can try different activities.
For an overly active dog, obedience exercises will help him learn obedience cues. But you can also help him unwind with some racing sports and stimulate his mind with track and hunting sports.
5. Hide and Seek
This type of game will give your furry friend some mental stimuli and a good deal of physical exercise. Consider including a chase game while you do this.
6. Tug of war
Playing tug of war often will help your faithful friend to develop muscles and to strengthen your bond. Most dogs enjoy playing tug of war with their owners, but if you’re not too convinced, there are a wide variety of themed toys to choose from.
7. Puzzle toys
Puzzle toys will keep your dog mentally engaged when you need him to stay in his space. Think for example of the classic Kong, a pastime educational and inspiring for both mind and body.