If you have ever had a puppy, you know that they are full of energy. There are some puppies that are simply over the top though. Even if you think that your dog’s hyperactivity is endearing, it is a behavior that you want to nip in the bud before it gets out of hand. Hyperactivity can turn into anxious, destructive or even aggressive dog behavior as the dog ages. When it comes to calming a hyperactive puppy, there are some things that dog owners can do to help. Blitz K9 Club is here to talk about some techniques that can be helpful when you’re working to calm a hyperactive puppy.
Work to Identify Hyperactive Triggers
When you have a hyperactive puppy, there are more than likely triggers that will cause the hyperactivity to kick into gear. It is important that you address these triggers and work to fix them. Some triggers might be playing tug-of-war, seeing other dogs on walks, or being left home alone. When you can figure out what causes your puppy to feel hyperactive, it can help to put a stop to the behavior. If it is because the puppy is bored, you can work to stimulate the dog. If the dog usually mirrors your behavior and is overexcited when you are, you can work to make sure you’re calm around your dog. Whatever the issue is, addressing it is the first step.
Become Good at Ignoring Hyperactivity
As a dog owner, you might be encouraging hyperactive behavior without even realizing it. If your dog is in a state of hyperactivity, any attention that you give the dog will only encourage the behavior and make it worse. If you notice that your puppy is getting over excited, it is time to take a step back and completely ignore your little puppy. No speaking or touching the puppy during these periods of hyperactivity.
Reward Calm Behavior
You start out ignoring the hyper behavior, but as soon as your puppy has calmed down, it’s time to sing their praises. You want to use high value treats to help reward their good behavior. Make sure that throughout the rewarding process, you are keeping your voice calm and collected so they don’t get excited again.
Learn the “Settle” Command
The process of ignoring hyperactivity and rewarding calmness will help teach your puppy the “settle” command. If you work consistently with your puppy on this, you will find that they get it nailed down in a few weeks. Before you give your puppy the reward for being calm, you will want to use the word “settle” with them. This will help them connect the treat, behavior and command with settling down.
Dog Obedience, Socialization & Behavioral Training in Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Pontiac, Commerce Township and other areas within an hour of our home base of Waterford, Michigan
If you are struggling with a hyperactive puppy and don’t know what to do, you can turn to Blitz K9 Club to help teach your dog the manners that you’re looking for. We will help your puppy learn positive behavior ASAP. Call us today!