Is your dog a whirlwind of energy? A zooming, bouncing, never-tiring force of nature? While their zest for life is part of their charm, sometimes you wish you could dial it down just a notch (or at least long enough to drink your coffee while it’s still warm). Don’t worry—Rex and Isla have the inside scoop on how to harness that boundless enthusiasm without losing their quirky personality. Welcome to our series on living with an energetic dog!
Taming Your Energetic Dog: A Guide to Channeling Their Energy Without Dimming Their Spirit
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Understanding Your Overly Energetic Dog
Think of your energetic dog as a bundle of fireworks—ready to explode with energy if not properly channeled. Hyperactivity isn’t just about having a naturally high-energy pup; it often stems from a mix of genetics, breed traits, and environmental factors. Some dogs are born dynamos, while others get overstimulated by their surroundings. Understanding where that energy comes from is the first step to managing it (without losing your mind).
1. Breed Tendencies and Genetics
Blame it on their DNA—some dogs are simply built for action. Breeds that were developed for herding, hunting, or working have energy levels that could power a small city. Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, and Labrador Retrievers aren’t built to be couch potatoes; they’re wired for movement, problem-solving, and (let’s be real) getting into trouble if they don’t get enough stimulation.
Take Rex, for example. As a Border Collie/Cattle Dog mix, he’s basically a four-legged athlete with a brain that never shuts off. He’s naturally an energetic dog and prone to obsessing over things that move—especially wheels, which is a classic herding breed trait. If he doesn’t get enough structured exercise and mental engagement, he’ll find his own job… usually one that involves rounding up everything in sight.
2. Environmental Factors
Imagine living in a theme park with flashing lights, loud noises, and a constant stream of excitement—sounds exhausting, right? That’s how some dogs feel in overstimulating environments. Too much excitement can send them into overdrive, making it nearly impossible for them to settle.
For example, taking Rex on a walk near a school during drop-off time? Big mistake. The buses, cars, scooters, and skateboards create the ultimate distraction buffet, making him a bundle of frantic energy. But by choosing a quieter route or adjusting our walk time, we set him up for success. Managing your dog’s environment is a game-changer when it comes to keeping their energy levels in check.
3. Missing Physical Activity & Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is a recipe for destruction. If they don’t get enough exercise, they’ll find “creative” ways to burn off energy—like turning your living room into a racetrack or redecorating your house with shredded pillows. But here’s the kicker: physical activity alone isn’t enough. Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as they need exercise.
Think of it this way—if your dog’s body is tired but their brain is still buzzing, you’re in trouble. That’s why we balance physical activity with brain games. Rex goes on two to three walks daily, plays ball multiple times a day, and attends weekly scent work classes. Missing even one of these activities? He turns into a restless tornado of energy.
4. Upbringing and Social Environment
A dog’s early experiences shape their behavior more than you might think. Poor socialization during puppyhood can lead to anxious or overexcited tendencies, while inconsistent training leaves them unsure of what’s expected. A hyper dog with no guidance is like a kid on a sugar rush with no bedtime—chaos is inevitable.
Rex was adopted at nine months old after spending his early life on a farm with very little socialization. That lack of early exposure to new people, places, and situations contributed to his anxious and excitable nature. With patience, training, and a structured routine, we’ve helped him channel his energy in a positive way—but it’s an ongoing process.
You Understand Your Energetic Dog, So What's Next?
Now that you have a better understanding of why your dog is a hyper ball of energy, what can you do to help them channel that energy without squashing their killer charm? In part one, we continue dive into practical strategies for turning that boundless enthusiasm into productive (and fun) activities for your energetic dog!
Daily Walks or Hikes
Managing an energetic dog is like trying to bottle a tornado—exciting, a little chaotic, and definitely requiring a solid game plan. And taking them on a daily walk is a perfect part of your game plan! Think of daily walks as the opening act to your pup’s rock concert of energy. They don’t just stretch legs; they engage the mind, letting your dog soak up the world like a furry little sponge of chaos and curiosity.
Get ready to master the art of the perfect dog walk—because a happy, energetic pup means a happy you! And with summer on the horizon, we’ve got even more tail-wagging walk ideas waiting for you. Fetch all the details in our blog post on the paw-some summer strolls! 🐾☀️
Where’s the Best Place to Walk?
The simple answer? Wherever you can walk comfortably and safely. The more detailed answer? That depends on a few factors, like weather, your dog’s temperament, and how much you value your sanity. Hiking trails, neighborhood strolls, park loops, forest adventures, and even desert walks can all be fantastic options—just be mindful of the conditions.
For example, in the middle of summer, you probably don’t want to fry your pup’s paws on the pavement or embark on a midday desert trek. Timing is key, so early mornings and evenings are often best. If your dog is reactive to other dogs, opt for less busy routes or off-peak hours. Ultimately, the best walk is the one that works for you and keeps your dog from bouncing off the walls.
Gearing Up for the Best Walks
A good walk starts with the right gear—because nothing ruins a stroll faster than blisters, a faulty leash, or your dog slipping out of their harness like an escape artist. Our go-to harnesses come from Dog Friendly CO (check them out here), and for our own comfort, we swear by Skechers Sport Memory Foam Fashion Sneakers. Because if our feet are miserable, so are we.
Our goal is to get in 2-3 walks a day, hitting the pavement in the morning and evening for sure, and squeezing in a lunchtime walk when time and weather allow. Rex and Isla are significantly calmer (read: less likely to zoom through the house like caffeinated squirrels) when we stick to that schedule. We mix up our routes based on the time of day, the weather, and how much time we have to spare—because variety is the spice of life, even for dogs.
Want more ideas for essential walking gear for you and your dog? Click here to find out more about our perfect essential walking gear!
When Walks Aren’t Enough
Sometimes, even after a solid walk, your dog still has energy to burn. That’s when it’s time to crank up the tempo with some high-energy games. Fetch is a classic—it’s like nature’s cardio for canines. Isla, the dignified princess that she is, isn’t much of a fetch player, but Rex? He’s all in. Whether it’s a ball, a frisbee, or a favorite toy, he’ll happily chase it down like his life depends on it. Here are a few of his all-time favorites:
- Nerf Dog Soccer Ball – The ultimate fetch challenge! This durable, bouncy ball turns your pup into a four-legged star, ready to dribble, chase, and score big. ⚽🐶
- Pup Claw Plush Dog Toys – Who says happy hour is just for humans? These adorable, squeaky plushies bring a playful twist to fetch and tug time. 🍻🐾
- Outward Hound Squeaky Snake Dog Toy – A slithery, squeaky, tail-wagging good time! This long, plush snake is perfect for tugging, shaking, and keeping your pup entertained for hours. 🐍🎾
If your pup needs even more structured stimulation, agility training is a fantastic way to keep their body and brain busy. Set up a mini obstacle course in your yard or check out local classes. It’s a fun way to train your dog and build a perfect partnership all while engaging their minds!
Indoor Adventures: Beating Boredom When the Outdoors Isn't an Option
What if you can’t walk your dog or engage in outdoor activities with them? Life happens—whether it’s bad weather, a busy schedule, or just one of those days where you and your dog would rather stay in. But just because outdoor adventures are off the table doesn’t mean your pup has to turn into a couch potato. Mental enrichment is just as crucial as physical exercise, and keeping their brain busy can help prevent boredom-induced mischief (or full-blown chaos).
Puzzle Toys: The VIP Backstage Pass for Your Dog’s Brain
- KONG Classic Dog Toy – A timeless favorite! Stuff it with peanut butter, yogurt, or treats and freeze it for an extra challenge.
- Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle – A fantastic way to test your dog’s problem-solving skills with various difficulty levels.
- Potaroma Treat Feeding Dog Puzzle – Think of this as your pup’s personal escape room—only the way out is through tasty treats! Keeps their brain buzzing and their paws busy.
- Yoboeew Treat Training Dog Puzzle – A boredom-busting brain teaser that turns snack time into a challenge. Perfect for keeping even the smartest pups entertained and out of trouble!
The Nose Knows: Scent Games & Challenges
If your energetic dog loves using their nose, take their mental workout to the next level with a nose work challenge! Hide their favorite toy or treats around the house and let them sniff out the prize—it’s like a treasure hunt but with better rewards (at least from their perspective). If they get really into it, consider enrolling in a local nose work class. Rex and Isla are obsessed with their weekly nose work sessions, and even at-home scent games keep them engaged and (mostly) out of trouble.
Here Rex is doing an Easter Egg nosework hunt, showing you can use anything to help engage in these fun games!
Teach New Tricks & Show Off Their Genius!
Dogs love learning new tricks, and it’s a great way to reinforce good behavior while having fun together. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of impressing your friends with your dog’s new party trick.
Rex’s favorite ‘signature move’ is called Eight, where he weaves a figure eight through our legs. Isla, on the other hand, enjoys a trick we call Who’s Your Buddy?—when asked, she sits and nudges Rex as if to say, “Duh, obviously him!”
Easy Energetic Dog Enrichment Hacks for Lazy (or Busy) Days
Even if you’re short on time (or energy), small enrichment activities can go a long way. Try these easy options:
- Frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter or yogurt – A delicious, time-consuming challenge.
- Pumpkin on a lick mat – A soothing, calming activity perfect for winding down.
- Interactive feeder bowls – Slow down mealtime and engage their brain at the same time.
At the end of the day, a happy dog is a mentally and physically engaged dog. Whether you’re teaching tricks, playing scent games, or simply handing them a puzzle toy, keeping their minds active is just as important as keeping their paws moving. And let’s be honest—anything that keeps them from redecorating your house with shredded pillows is a win!
And for another source of enrichment for your busiest days, check out this article from our friends at Tail Wag Wisdom of simple mind games for your energetic dog!
Conclusion: Energetic Dog, Happy Life!
At the end of the day, a happy dog is a mentally and physically engaged dog. Whether you’re teaching tricks, playing scent games, or simply handing them a puzzle toy, keeping their minds active is just as important as keeping their paws moving. And let’s be honest—anything that keeps them from redecorating your house with shredded pillows is a win!
Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll dive into the magic of routines—because a well-structured schedule isn’t just for overachievers, it’s the secret to keeping your hyper pup calm, happy, and (mostly) out of trouble!
