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Generally, dogs are pretty active animals. Even the ‘lazy’ breeds will need to be walked regularly to get their daily exercise in. However, you might have a dog that’s hyperactive. This means they are constantly running around, barking, and requiring constant attention. Now, this might be normal - depending on the breed and age of your dog - or it could be something to bring up at the next vet visit. Either way, it helps to learn how to calm down your dog when it’s being a bit too hyper.
Give them their physical exercise
A lot of dogs aren’t so much hyperactive as they are being forced to live inactive lives. This happens when you have a breed that’s highly active, but the owner thinks only one small walk a day is required. In reality, some breeds need to be walked a few times per day to use up all their energy. Letting your dog run around a field for an hour or so will ensure they tire themselves out and have less energy for the rest of the day. So, they will be more docile when you get back home.
Train their brain
Likewise, training your dog’s brain will also help them deal with this excessive energy. Sometimes, walking them won’t have the desired effect as they just don’t tire out. This happens with some breeds that are literally bred to run around loads - like sheepdogs. So, giving them mental tasks to challenge their brain will be a good solution. Teach them new tricks or habits that force them to think. Games that make them sniff things out or search for things around the house can also be really clever. There are loads of ways you can train your dog’s brain, and they will all help you calm them down. In essence, you’re trying to get them to focus on a set task, which stops them from running around creating loads of noise!
Feed them calming treats
There are different supplements on the market that are shown to help dogs calm down and be more relaxed. But, you can also find calming treats for dogs that give them some added nourishment, while also calming them down. Look for snacks or treats that include natural ingredients and things like chamomile or valerian root. Both of these things are shown to calm the dog down and promote relaxation. The reason you give it to them in treat form is that you ensure your dog isn’t being pumped full of needless medications or supplements with added unnatural ingredients.
Try these ideas and see how they affect your dog. Are they showing signs of calming down, or do you still struggle to see any changes? If the latter is true, then it’s worth visiting the vet and explaining the situation. It might transpire that your dog has a medical condition, or the vet can provide you with some other ideas that will help you calm your dog down. Remember, active dogs are normal, but if they become so hyperactive that it has a negative impact on your day, you should try to calm them down.