Whether you have a young, hyper dog, an older energetic dog or a breed that is high energy, ALL DOGS can learn to calm themselves down. One of Stevies issues is that she has (unbeknownst by her owner) been being TAUGHT to be hyper active, anxious and worked up. Many times dog owners do not even realize that they are teaching their dogs excitement gets them things they want. We pick up the leash and the dog jumps, whines, barks, paces, etc. etc. etc. What do we do - reward that with something the dogs wants - A WALK! The same goes for going outside, getting in or out of the car, coming out of their crate when you get home or wake up in the morning... I am not saying that dogs shouldnt be excited or energetic, enjoying certain things far more than others in their life, but can you calm your dog down in the face of these things? Find the balance of a happy, enthusiastic dog, but one who when you say so takes a breath, pops a chill pill and sits back waiting until you give them the go ahead for something. Calm behavior should get your dog the things they want in life - or at least controlled behavior, not spastic behavior. But we get caught up in the trend, thinking that our dogs are hyper, therefore they need more ______ (fill in the blank, walks, exercise, play time with other dogs, fetch, etc. etc.). In essence they become a bionic addict to activity and adrenaline. You find that as time goes on their appetite becomes harder and harder to satiate. Where it was once a walk around the block, now it is a play date, 1 hour walk, fetch and they still arent tired . Dont forget the mental exercises... those are the key to teaching your dog to self regulate and calm themselves down. Are you feeding the monster??
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 17:08:20 +0000
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