Certain dog breeds are prone to higher energy levels. If you happen to be the owner of a Husky, an Australian Shepherd, a Weimaraner, a Jack Russell Terrier, or a puppy of any breed then you know that the demands of having a high-energy dog can be a lot! Here are three tips for embracing and working with your high-energy dog’s habits.
Develop a walking routine
If you have a high-energy dog, it’s safe to say they probably enjoy walks. Make walking a habit and take your dog out for the walk at the same times each day – for example, at 8 am in the morning and at 8 pm at night. By taking your dog on a walk at the same times each day, you can start to train them to know when they get to go on walks – so they won’t always be pestering you to take them outside for their long walks. If you have a high energy dog that can become destructive when restless or left alone, doing this walk-time training can help lessen this behavior.
Don’t shy away from long walks, either. Walking is a great activity for your dog – it keeps them healthy, limber and helps regulate weight. But walking is also great for your health. There are multiple benefits to going on walks with your dog – it strengthens your bond together and is good for your body.
Find energetic activities that you enjoy together
Instead of trying to fight or quash your dog’s energy levels, embrace it by finding ways that you can have fun together. Do you like to run? Try taking your dog on a run with you – they’ll probably enjoy it too! Do you have other dog-owner friends? Arrange for a group hangout and take your dogs to the local dog park. They can play to their heart’s content while you and your friends get to hang out and catch up. Do you enjoy swimming? Plan a trip to your local dog-friendly lake or beach and go swimming with your pup. (Just make sure it’s something they enjoy and can do, too!)
Energetic activities don’t have to just be limited to the outdoors. Especially if you live somewhere with a cold climate, make an effort to find or create some indoor activities that engage your pup. Many dog owners swear by a good old-fashioned game of Hide and Seek!
Try out dog sitting
Even if you could be home all day, every day to play with your dog, that would be a lot of work! To stimulate your pup and provide them with attention, consider trying out a dog walking or dog sitting service. With these services, a designated pet care specialist will come to your home and hang out, play with, and walk your dog! Many of these providers, like Trusty Tails Dog Sitting, provide a number of services that can be customized to you and your dog’s unique needs.
Having a professional dog sitter come to your house is a great solution for owners with high-energy dogs. Give it a try today. Remember, a tired pup is a happy pup!
