We’ve all heard the phrase: “A tired dog is a happy dog.”
As a behaviour specialist, I see the fallout of this advice regularly. Often, when we have a dog with “too much energy,” our instinct is to go harder. Longer fetches, faster runs, more time walking.
But physical exhaustion is not the same as mental regulation.
In fact, high-intensity exercise (like repetitive ball throwing) spikes adrenaline and cortisol. If your dog can’t “switch off” after a long walk, they aren’t “not tired enough”—they are likely overstimulated and chemically incapable of settling.
Instead of thinking of more physical stimulation, try creating a balance and also incorporate activities that lower the heart rate and satisfy them in a calm way.
The “Sniffari”: Let your dog lead the walk. If they want to sniff one lamp post for three minutes – let them. Sniffing lowers their pulse and processes information.
Licking & Chewing: These actions release endorphins that are naturally soothing. A natural chew, licky mat, filled kong are ways to press the “reset” button for the nervous system.
Foraging: Scatter treats outside or in a rolled-up towel as examples. Encouraging them to use their nose to find treats and smells is more exhausting than a two-mile run.
We want a dog that is balanced and relaxed, not a dog that is a world-class athlete with no “off” switch…..that is not fun to live with!
#helpathanddogbehaviour#DogBehaviour#dog#january#DogTrainingTips#CanineEnrichment#DecompressionWalk#DogSpecialist#NervousDog#DogBehaviourist#DogParenting#Sniffari#ballcatching
Courtesy of Help at Hand Dog Training and Behaviour
