Bug is a lovable dog, but he’s just so full of energy that sometimes it can be overwhelming. If you’re a dog owner struggling to calm down your hyperactive dog, you’re not alone.

Many people have dogs with higher levels of energy than they know what to do with. In this article, we’ll provide tips and tricks for stopping an overactive dog like Bug in his tracks.

Create a Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and it’s essential for keeping active dogs calm and focused. Set regular walk times, feeding times, and play times. Stick to the schedule as much as possible, and make sure everyone in the household is on board.

If Bug knows what to expect, he’ll be less anxious and more relaxed throughout the day.

Exercise Often

Overactive dogs like Bug need plenty of exercise to burn off excess energy. Plan to walk or run with your dog every day, and encourage him to play and explore outside as much as possible.

If you don’t have time to walk your dog every day, consider hiring a dog walker or dog sitter to help out. The more physical activity Bug gets, the better he’ll be able to cope with down time at home.

Train Your Dog

Training your dog is not only necessary for good behavior but can also help calm down overactive dogs. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and off.

Once your dog masters these, move on to more advanced commands like play dead, roll over, and shake. The more your dog learns and performs, the more confident and relaxed he’ll be in any situation.

Provide Mental Stimulation

Many dogs are overactive because they’re bored and looking for something to do. Provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation to keep his mind sharp and focused.

Interactive toys, puzzles, and games can all help keep your dog’s mind occupied and reduce overall hyperactivity. Playing hide-and-seek with treats is also an excellent way to engage your dog’s brain and tire them out.

Use Soothing Music

Music is well known for its calming properties, and it can also work wonders for overactive dogs. Choose music with a slow tempo and soft instrumental tones to help soothe your active dog.

Classical and ambient music are great choices, as are many meditation and relaxation playlists. Playing calming music during times when your dog is usually hyperactive can help him relax and settle down.

Avoid Overstimulation

Overactive dogs like Bug can easily become overwhelmed by too much stimulation. Avoid situations where your dog might become overstimulated, such as crowded dog parks or noisy events.

If you do take your dog to these places, make sure you have a plan to help them calm down if needed. Have your dog on a leash, and use calming signals or specific commands to keep your dog focused and calm.

Consider Professional Help

If you’ve tried all the above tips and your dog is still overly active, it may be time to seek professional help.

Talk with your veterinarian or an experienced dog trainer or behaviorist to determine if there are any underlying health or behavioral issues that need to be addressed. They can prescribe medication, provide specialized training, or offer other solutions to help your dog calm down and become more relaxed.

Conclusion

Stopping an overactive dog like Bug is not always easy, but with some consistent effort and a firm routine, it’s definitely possible.

By giving your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, focusing on basic and advanced training, and avoiding situations that may overstimulate him, you can help your dog become more calm, relaxed, and well-adjusted.