Introduction
Are you looking for tips on how to calm a hyper dog naturally? If so, then this article has got you covered.
Having a hyperactive dog can make it overwhelming when you want to relax at the end of a busy day.
The condition can also prevent your dog from enjoying normal activities such as walking around the neighborhood.
A hyper dog has unhealthy behaviors such as constant barking, biting, and chewing everything in sight. Seeing your lovely dog behaving like this can be heartbreaking.
Luckily there are proven ways to calm a dog, but you first need to understand the cause of its anxiety. Let’s get into the details.
How to Calm a Hyper Dog Naturally
Today many dog owners prefer natural and holistic remedies for their hyper dogs. But before you settle on a remedy, you should first visit a vet to ascertain the cause of the stress.
You can use natural remedies if the veterinarian confirms it’s not a health issue. These include;
1. Exercise
At times, your stress can become your dog’s stress. For example, the dog will feel anxious if your work schedule is tight and prevents you from taking your furry friend for the regular walks it’s used to.
A sudden change in routine, and loneliness, can be possible contributors to anxiety. You can eliminate them by taking the dog out for a stretch and some fresh air.
You can also remedy a dog’s anxiety by allowing it to exercise outside the house. Even old dogs need some exercise, but the activities should be easier on their joints.
2. Use DIY Puzzles or Interactive Treat Balls
Using an interactive treat ball, you can put your dog’s nose to work. It doesn’t only work the nose but also improves the dog’s problem-solving skills.
There are various treat balls in the market; pick one that fits your dog’s needs. The best treat balls are rubber; they don’t make much noise when rolled on the floor or hitting the wall.
The IQ treat ball is also a great pick; you can adjust it to different difficulty levels, depending on your dog’s age. A puppy will get frustrated by a hard puzzle, while a senior dog can easily solve it.
3. Supplements
You can treat your dog’s stress using supplements such as melatonin. This hormone naturally rises in an animal’s bloodstream when it’s asleep. Melatonin will keep the dog calm for a short period, e.g., before a thunderstorm or planned trip.
Other great supplements include L-tryptophan and L-theanine; they help with mild to moderate anxiety.
You should talk to your veterinarian before picking a certain supplement. The vet will give you the right supplement and dosage for your dog.
4. Grooming
The therapy for your hyper dog can be a simple 15-minute brushing each evening or night. Most dogs do enjoy this, and it also gives them more time with their owner.
You’ll also be able to observe the dog’s skin condition and notice any types of abrasions, lesions, or excessive licking. This could be a sign of something more serious.
5. Mental Stimulation
There are several stress-relief techniques, and they do work on different levels. For example, you can teach your dog a new technique to distract it from whatever is causing stress.
While teaching the dog a new technique, you’ll also be engaging with him, something that most dogs look forward to from their owners after spending the entire day at home alone.
Most dogs develop stress behaviors due to boredom, but this can be handled by having fun together.
People usually only relate tiredness to physical exertion, but that’s not the case. Mental exertion will have similar effects.
You can teach your dog anything that’s challenging and allows it to relieve stress. For example, you can take the dog for a “scent walk,” which offers mental stimulation as your dog sniffs new places and physical exercise.
Other materials for additional mental stimulation include feeding it from the puzzle ball etc.
6. Don’t Encourage Excitement
Each time your dog approaches you with excitement, it’s what you do that determines whether this behavior becomes more or less.
Avoid giving attention to an excited dog, or you’ll encourage him to keep doing that. The dog will learn that being excited gets it a reward and will always do that.
The best way to react to an excited dog is to ignore him. Don’t give it any eye contact, touch or talk.
7. Provide Proper Socializing
Exposing your dog to various social situations can help kill anxiety – but this works well for puppies. Start by providing socialization in a more controlled environment before taking it to a dog park.
Older dogs with phobias or pre-existing trauma will need help from a trained behaviorist.
8. Music
A 2017 study found that the proper music can help reduce anxiety symptoms in dogs. The researchers played different music types to a group of dogs and observed them.
After a week, they started playing various music genres. Reggae and soft rock were the most effective, but each dog had their own favorites.
Therefore, playing your dog’s favorite music at low to medium volume will add calmness to its environment. But first, confirm that the dog is enjoying it by observing its body language.
9. Calming T-Shirts/ Coats
The calming t-shirts and coats apply mild but constant pressure on the dog’s torso. The t-shirts/ coats cover the dog like a swaddling cloth on a baby. These are best for pooches with any type of anxiety caused by noise, separation, or travel.
Depending on the age and size of the dog, there are various models and brands to pick from, such as the comfort zone calming vest, etc.
10. Physical Contact
There’s nothing more soothing to a dog than its owner’s touch on how to calm a hyper dog naturally. In the process, you’ll be able to identify any early signs of anxiety and stop them by cuddling the dog, offering it excellent long petting, and more.
Common Types of Anxiety in Dogs And How To Manage Them
Anxiety in dogs is a common issue that affects many pet owners, but with the right knowledge and understanding, it can be managed and treated effectively.
Here we will explore the most common types of anxiety in dogs and provide tips on managing them.
Separation anxiety
This type of anxiety occurs when a dog gets separated from its owner or guardian. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark, pace, urinate, chew, or even escape their enclosure when alone.
This can be treated through behavior modification, where you train your dog to enjoy or at least tolerate being home alone with something they like, such as a toy.
Shelter anxiety
Dogs that have been rescued may develop anxiety from their past experiences. They may fear new environments, loud noises, and intimidation by other dogs or people and display signs of fear and nervousness.
This can be treated by creating a safe and comfortable environment by providing warm bedding and dog toys. Frequent hugs also work magic!
Fear or loud/sudden noise
Dogs can be sensitive to loud or sudden noises, such as fireworks, thunderstorms, car alarms, and construction work.
This type of anxiety can cause dogs to become fearful, panicked, and hide. This can be managed through desensitization training and providing a safe and secure place for the dog during loud events.
Social anxiety
When around other dogs or people, some dogs may develop social anxiety. They may develop a withdrawn, angry, or shy personality.
This type of anxiety can be treated through socialization training and positive reinforcement to help your dog build confidence.
Illness induced anxiety
Dogs may become anxious when experiencing pain or discomfort due to an illness. This can cause them to become more clingy or aggressive.
It is important to address and treat any underlying medical conditions to treat this type of anxiety. With proper treatment, the dog’s anxiety can be reduced.
Managing Anxiety In Dogs Is Possible!
If you have a furry friend suffering from anxiety, don’t worry about how to calm a hyper dog naturally,
There are numerous methods to identify the cause of their anxiety and provide the necessary treatment, allowing them to lead a joyful and relaxed life. You can help your pup live its best life by giving them the best care and comfort possible.
Conclusion
Now you know how to calm a hyper dog naturally. Hyperactive dogs can be a handful, but it’s important to remember that their high energy levels are not always a bad thing.
Luckily there are ways you can help them channel their energy in positive ways. And when you need to calm them down, there are natural methods discussed in this article that can help to soothe and relax your furry friend.
Remember to be patient and consistent with your training, and always seek advice from a veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s behavior.
With the right approach, you and your hyperactive pup can enjoy a happy and harmonious life together.
