How to Train a Hyper Dog: Tips for Better Behavior

High energy dogs are a ton of fun for Instagram shoots and parties. But training them can become a part-time job. With some trial and error, I've learned how to train a hyper dog.

So, the other day, I was enjoying a rare moment of peace—my coffee was hot, the laundry folded, my laptop charged and ready for the day. The dogs were lounging in their respective sunspots.

Then, like a whirlwind, Pixie, my energetic terrier, sprang into action. She was doing her “zoomies” across the house, skidding around corners and bouncing off the couch like she just downed a gallon of espresso.

It was clear cutting her walk short this morning so I could get back for a video call had done me no favors. High energy dogs can be a handful. But with the right training treats, routines, and patience, you can harness all that energy into positive behaviors.

Why Are Some Dogs So Hyper?

Hyperactivity in dogs often comes down to a mix of things—genetics, age, and environment.

Breed Traits

Certain breeds are naturally more energetic. Terriers like Pixie, Border Collies, and Huskies were bred to work, and they need to channel their energy somewhere.

Pure Energy

Younger dogs, especially puppies, have a lot of energy and don't yet know how to use it. But that doesn't mean almost-senior dogs like Pixie can't run circles around a puppy when she's feeling extra spunky.

Understimulated Environment

Let's be honest. Many of our homes are no "dog playground"—even though we expect our dogs to stay indoors a lot. That means, there's just not a lot to do. And if they find something lying around to chew on, we probably wouldn't like what they do to it.

Physical and mental stimulation for dogs is important. Without it, they may develop hyper behaviors out of pure boredom. Wouldn't you bounce off the walls if you had nothing to do?

So, what I'm trying to say here is hyper dogs aren't a problem—it’s a sign these high energy dogs need more outlets for their energy—and some simple dog training to help them navigate a human world.

Exercise: The Foundation for a Calm Dog

Every time Pixie gets fidgety, I ask myself: Has she had enough exercise today?

Physical activity is essential for high energy dogs. And it’s often the first step in calming hyper behaviors so you can begin training.

Daily Walks (or Runs)

Pixie thrives on her morning walks, which double as sniffing adventures. The longer the walk, the more relaxed she is at home. But long walks are a luxury on busy days.

So, if your dog has extra energy, consider adding some running. If you're not the running type, why not play a game of fetch? Even 5-10 minutes of fetching a flying disc, stick, or ball in the morning helps her feel less anxious and overstimulated the rest of the day.

Water Sports

If you have a lake or pool nearby, throw a floating toy increasingly further out and have them swim for it. Consider your dog's fitness level and adjust the game to keep them safe.

One Dog Team

When Pixie is chasing after her favorite red ball in the backyard she is the whole soccer team. She kicks it and then runs after it to kick it again. I even put my kids' old soccer goal out there—but I couldn't get Bruno to play goalie.

Interactive Play at the Home

I've also been thinking about the fact that not everyone has a backyard. So, what can Pixie do indoors on stormy days when we can't play outside?

Try “find it” in the house. This game is so easy. And dogs love it. You don't even have to get up off the couch.

Watch Amanda teach Find It with healthy dog treats.

Structured Activities: Critical for Bonding and Behavior

Dogs like Pixie thrive on routines. So, the more you can standardize your routine, the better. A day might include these kinds of activities on a relatively consistent schedule:

• Eating
• 3 daily 15-20 minutes walks at around the same time
• Nap time
• Playtime
• Run around the yard time
• Learning a new trick or reinforcing previous training
• Chew bones sessions

As a bonus, this also gets you active. Like many people, I have a computer job, so I need help finding excuses to be active during the workday. This may be why dog people tend to may live longer than cat people.

Although, I know a cat who will play fetch with his cat mom all day long. So, there are exceptions.

Mental Stimulation for Dogs

Now, I'd argue that the physical activities listed above are also mental stimulation for dogs. But I have a few more tricks up my sleeve.

Puzzle Toys

Pixie’s favorite toy is one that dispenses treats when she figures out how to open it. These toys engage her brain and keep her occupied for a solid 20 minutes—bliss for me. Fun for her.

Amazon has some great options. Check out this one.

I even found a single-ingredient dog puzzle toy. Pixies loves her beef marrow bone. She licks, turns it, and chews to get some marrow out. It keeps her entertained, beats boredom, and can even alleviate the anxiety many dogs feel when they're cooped up inside a lot. 

I choose this single-ingredient marrow dog bone because dog bones are calming treats for hyper dogs.

Hide and Seek

Another activity for in the home or outside might be a game of "Hide and Seek". While your pup is sleeping, quietly scatter calming treats for hyper dogs in hidden places. Or rub a treat on toys to get that scent on it and then hide those too.

When your pup wakes, invite them to find the treasures with "Hide and Seek." It's very stimulating. They get to use their sense of smell and dog intelligence to figure out where the toys and treats are.

If your dog is crate trained, you can also tell them, "Go to Crate" while you hide the toys. Staying in the crate while you hide the toys shows great discipline. It further promotes staying calm and well-behaved.

I share how to crate train in this post.

Training with Treats and Love

Use high value treats as positive reinforcement. Treats and praise communicate desired behaviors. As you consistently focus on and reward what you want more of, you get more of it.

I buy beef lung bites in bulk for Pixie's training sessions. We bond, she learns how to behave, and she feels life is full and interesting. So, fewer kitchen pacing episodes.

Signs of Progress

Over time, I’ve noticed that Pixie is:

• More focused during training sessions
• Less destructive around the house
• Better at relaxing when the day winds down

Her zoomies still show up—especially when we get off schedule. But now they’re more of a fun spectacle than a sign of lack of physical and mental stimulation in dogs.

I credit the time I've spent training her to play games and follow commands for the relatively calm and content terrier she is—and high value dog treats and dog bones certainly support my efforts.

If you'd like to learn how to train a hyper dog, I invite you to check out this Free 7-Day Dog Training Challenge.

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