Your Guide to Figuring Out Your Dog’s Energy and Planning Activities
Your Guide to Figuring Out Your Dog’s Energy and Planning Activities
If you own a dog, then you must be aware of the level of energy a dog has. Their sudden bursts of energy allow them to race around the house or yard at top speed. These energy bursts are known as "zoomies", and though they can be amusing at times, they are a clear sign that your dog has a lot of energy that needs to be burned. Dogs and humans are pretty alike. They both need physical and mental exercise to stay healthy and happy. This is why, when a dog has a lot of energy unspent, they can become restless.
Finding the right way to help your dog release this energy is necessary if you want to have a calm and content companion along with a peaceful home. In this blog, we will discuss how to know if your dog needs more activities in their schedule and what you can do for them.
What to Look For To Identify Your Dog's Energy Levels?
Before you start planning a bunch of activities for your dog, you need to figure out their level of energy. There are some signs that can help you recognize if they have surplus, in which case, they need a lot more engagement. Here are some tell-tale signs to help you understand their energy levels:
Excessive Chewing: If your dog has taken up on the task to chew everything from your shoes to furniture items and even the things that are completely unexpected then it can be a sign. They are bored or have tons of pent-up energy, so they are looking for ways to explore and relieve stress or spend their energy. It’s also common in energetic dogs who don’t have enough space to run around.
Barking or Whining: There are a lot of reasons for your dog to bark, but constantly and aimless whining can be a sign of frustration or call for attention or maybe they want more activity. They might be trying to tell you that they are under-stimulated and need more from you.
Restlessness: If your dog is not settling down just packing back and forth, keeps following you all around the house and nudges you then it’s another sign. They are restless as they don’t know how to vent all the energy and only you can help.
Not Settling Down: So, you come back from a walk but your dog is still unable to relax or take a nap. This could mean that it wasn't enough for them, it didn't satisfy their need for exercise. You have to get them into something like dog football and soccer enrichment programs in Los Angeles.
Rough Play: Jumping on people, nipping playfully but too hard or engaging in out-of-control behaviours are all signs. Your dog might be trying to initiate interaction to burn off energy, but there's no proper outlet to do so. All of this behaviour is a cry for more structured play time.
(Also Read: How Enrichment Activities Can Enhance Your Dog's Emotional Health)
What Activities Can You Sign Your Dog Up For?
So, by now, you must know that a good, long walk is sometimes not enough for your dog. They need something more than just a stroll around the block. Here are some ideas that you can implement to help your dog release energy:
Purposeful Movement: You can plan activities for your dog that involve more than continuous running. Games that will make your dog think or respond to cues can help to tap into their natural instincts can make exercise more mentally effective. This is why canin football training for obedience and coordination can work really well for energetic dogs to channel their natural drive.
Interactive Games: More than a simple game of fetch, you can add rules or goals to the play to take it to the next level. For example, you could be playing hide-and-seek. Add a twist with some toys or treats in the house or yard, so that your dog can put their nose and brain to use. You could even play tug of war with your dog to improve their physical and mental focus.
Puzzle and Brainers: Mental exercise can also burn a lot of energy. Things like puzzle toys need your dog to figure out how to get a treat and tire their brains. Learning new tricks also falls into this category as it requires concentration and problem-solving skills. Once your dog is mentally tired, he is as tired as a physically tired dog.
Sports and Group activities: A lot of dog daycare offer various dog sports and platime sessions. These can range from canine football playtime for energetic dogs in Los Angeles to flyball or scent work. Your dog can take part into these structured programs to burn energy while also getting social benefits from interaction with other dogs.
Bottom Line
Managing your dog's energy is a responsibility as the owner, so you must understand your dog's needs and take care of them. Now you know what signs to look out for and which activities to sign up for to release all that pent-up energy. So, if you are looking for a structured and engaging way for your energetic dog, consider exploring dog soccer training classes near Downtown LA. Contact us at waterland@southparkdoggie.com to learn more about how we can help your furry friend find their perfect energy outlet.