It’s a common sight to find your puppy bouncing off the walls, especially if you have a high-energy breed. While it’s a sign of your puppy’s health and vitality, it can also be concerning if it’s disrupting your everyday life.
Here are seven ways to soothe your puppy when it’s bouncing off the walls.
1. Increase Exercise
One of the main reasons your puppy might be bouncing off the walls is that it needs more exercise. Taking your puppy on longer and more frequent walks can help burn off its excess energy and keep it calm indoors.
If possible, take your puppy for a run or play a game of fetch to tire it out. Puppies need a lot of physical activity to stay healthy, so make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your routine.
2. Provide Mental Stimulation
Puppies not only need physical exercise but also mental stimulation. Interactive toys, puzzles, and games can keep your puppy’s mind engaged and prevent it from getting bored.
Puzzle toys that dispense treats as your puppy plays with them are a great way to provide mental stimulation and reward your puppy for good behavior. You can also try teaching your puppy new tricks and commands to keep its mind active.
3. Create a Safe Space
Sometimes puppies can get overstimulated or anxious, leading to hyperactivity. Creating a safe space in your home where your puppy can retreat to when it’s feeling overwhelmed can help soothe it.
This could be a crate, a corner of the room, or a designated bed. Make this space comfortable and inviting by adding familiar items like blankets, toys, and treats. Encourage your puppy to use this space when it’s feeling overexcited or needs a break.
4. Stick to a Consistent Routine
Establishing a consistent routine can be extremely helpful in calming your puppy. This means feeding your puppy at the same time every day, taking it out for walks and exercise at regular intervals, and creating a predictable environment overall.
Puppies thrive on routine and structure, so sticking to a consistent schedule can help regulate their energy levels and prevent overstimulation.
5. Provide Comforting Touch
Physical touch is a great way to soothe an overexcited puppy. Rubbing your puppy’s belly, giving it a gentle massage, or simply petting it can help calm it down. Remember to use a gentle touch and speak in a soothing tone to reassure your puppy.
This physical contact can stimulate hormones that induce relaxation and calmness.
6. Avoid Overstimulation
Puppies can be easily overstimulated, leading to hyperactivity and excessive energy. Avoid overstimulating your puppy by limiting exposure to loud noises, bright lights, and overwhelming environments.
Make sure your puppy has ample downtime to rest and recharge. By creating a calm and quiet environment for your puppy, you can prevent overexertion and overexcitement.
7. Consider Natural Calming Products
If your puppy’s hyperactivity is persistent despite your efforts, consider natural calming products to soothe it. Products like herbal supplements, aromatherapy, and pheromone diffusers can help induce relaxation and calmness in your puppy.
Just make sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying any new products to ensure their safety and effectiveness.