Whether accidentally or by choice, if you’ve found yourself the loving pet parent of a high energy dog, it might feel like you’re in over your head. While high energy dogs are a lot of fun, and usually very friendly, it can be overwhelming to have to live with one day in and day out. But before you throw in the towel, consider throwing something else that will help both of you with your frustration and bring those energy levels down a few notches.
Here are the top 5 ways to have fun with your high energy dog:
1. Water Sports.
Swimming, dock-diving, surfing, or just chasing a ball or frisbee on the beach and racing after it into the waves, can be a fun, exhilarating and energy burning activity that is sure to have even the most energized dogs tired enough for some rest and relaxation at home by the couch.
2. Dry Land Adventures.
Hiking, walking, biking, while exploring new places are a great way to burn a lot of energy and have a great time with your dog. Taking your pup out for 30 - 60 minute adventures 1-3 times a day is sure to burn energy and give you both some quality time together. If you work outside the home, consider hiring a dog walker and see how much calmer your pup is when you get home and just want to relax after work.
3. Toys.
A variety of toys that provide dogs with physical and/or mental stimulation are sure to burn energy and get your pup thinking creatively, which is another great way to burn extra fuel. There are even toys that can take the place of your dog’s food bowl, where pet parents can put food inside of a safe chew toy and the dog actually has to use their energy and problem solving skills to get the food out. One of these toys is the PupPod. This fun, interactive, high-tech puzzle game gives your dog the mental stimulation he craves and automatically keeps challenging him as he learns.
4. Home Activities.
If you’re stuck inside due to inclement weather, try bringing the fun indoors. Some fun games to try are hide and seek where you hide a toy or treat and encourage your dog to find it. There are also bouncy rubber toys that you can toss around your living room to get your dog running and jumping, burning energy and taking the place of any outdoor exercise that you would’ve otherwise engaged in. Just remove any fragile objects from the room to avoid accidents and messes.
5. Go Pro.
Professional dog sports are becoming more and more popular. Sign your pup up for agility training or Rally which is an obedience driven sport that requires walking through a course and performing different commands. After an hour of rigorous training and activity, your high energy dog will not only be tired, but he’ll be more well behaved at home.
Regardless of the activities you choose to do with your dog, it’s important that you do them often. High energy dogs, also known as working dogs, thrive when they are given tasks, jobs and games to participate in, to keep their minds and bodies in motion. While most dogs enjoy regular exercise, a high energy dog needs to be very well-exercised in order to maintain a balanced and safe life, and stay happy, which makes for a happy and well-rested pet parent.
Dogs are smart, loving and loyal friends who just want to please their pet parents. The more time you spend with them, whether it’s just hanging out or training or exercising, the more they will respond to you, bond with you and trust you.
So play with your dog, not just to burn off excess energy, but also to build on the loving friendship you share with your furry best friend.