Adequate exercise is extremely important for your dog to be happy and healthy. — Reddogs/Dreamstime/TNS
Hyperactivity is one of the most common behavioural concerns of dog owners. In a lot of cases, additional breed education is needed for the owner, as well as a new exercise plan for your dog.
The American Kennel Club offers the following tips for the owner of the energetic dog.
Adequate exercise is extremely important for your dog to be happy and healthy.
Create a daily exercise plan and stick to it. Not only will it be beneficial for your dog to have consistent physical and mental simulation, your pup will also appreciate the routine.
You also need to know your breed. For active breeds, a quick walk on a leash may not always do the trick. Try a game of fetch or running games in a fenced yard or a dog park.
If you are away from home for long periods of time, doggie daycare may be a better option for your dog to release some energy.
Give your dog a job. Some active breeds can benefit greatly from something to do on a regular basis that involves both physical and mental activity.
Performance events such as field work, herding, lure coursing and dock diving are perfect for canine athletes.
Activities such as obedience, agility and rally also provide a great combination of the physical and mental stimulation needed for an active dog.
Teach them basic commands. Once you’ve met the exercise needs of an active dog, basic obedience skills such as "sit", "down" and "stay" can be helpful tools when managing your dog’s behaviour.When company comes and the dog can’t “settle,” a command can help your dog calm down.
If you’ve established an appropriate exercise plan for your dog’s age and breed and your pup still demonstrates hyperactivity, a veterinary checkup is a good idea.
While most of the time exercise, training and activities are the issue, there are medical conditions that can cause your dog’s hyperactive behaviour.
Your dog’s veterinarian can do a comprehensive medical exam to rule out any problems. – American Kennel Club/Tribune News Service
