Some dogs seem to have endless energy—they run in circles, jump on furniture, bark non-stop, and struggle to calm down. While all dogs need physical activity, hyperactive dogs require extra stimulation to keep them balanced, happy, and well-behaved.
If your dog is always restless, engaging in destructive behavior, excessive barking, or pulling on the leash during walks, they likely need more exercise and mental challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore effective ways to burn off a hyperactive dog’s energy and help them become calmer and more focused.
1. Why Do Some Dogs Have So Much Energy?
Some dogs naturally have higher energy levels than others. Hyperactivity can be caused by:
✔ Breed Type – Working breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Belgian Malinois are bred for endurance and require intense exercise.
✔ Age – Puppies and young dogs have more energy than seniors.
✔ Lack of Physical Exercise – A dog that doesn’t get enough daily activity will become restless and act out.
✔ Lack of Mental Stimulation – A bored dog will find ways to entertain themselves, often leading to destructive behaviors.
✔ Separation Anxiety or Stress – Some dogs become hyperactive due to anxiety or lack of structure in their daily routine.
If your dog is constantly overexcited, jumps on guests, chews furniture, or barks excessively, they likely need more structured activities.
2. Best Ways to Burn Off a Hyperactive Dog’s Energy
Hyperactive dogs need a combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and training to help them stay balanced.
2.1 Increase Physical Exercise
✔ Long Walks and Runs – Hyperactive dogs need longer walks (45-60 minutes) or jogging sessions to drain excess energy.
✔ Play Fetch – A great way to burn energy quickly in a controlled space.
✔ Swimming – Provides an excellent full-body workout, especially for breeds like Labradors and Newfoundlands.
✔ Hiking – The challenge of new terrains and smells keeps dogs engaged.
✔ Tip: High-energy dogs may need multiple walks per day—a single 15-minute stroll is not enough.
2.2 Engage in Agility and Obstacle Training
Hyperactive dogs thrive with agility training because it requires both mental focus and physical energy.
✔ Set up an obstacle course using tunnels, cones, and jumps.
✔ Teach your dog to weave through poles, jump over barriers, or crawl under objects.
✔ Use positive reinforcement (treats and praise) to encourage participation.
✔ Best for: Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Jack Russell Terriers.
2.3 Play Tug-of-War for Controlled Energy Release
Tug-of-war is an excellent way to exercise muscles and provide controlled play.
✔ Use a strong rope toy and encourage your dog to tug.
✔ Teach “Drop it” or “Leave it” to maintain control.
✔ This game is great for bonding and impulse control training.
✔ Tip: Avoid playing if your dog becomes overly aggressive or possessive.
2.4 Use Flirt Poles to Simulate Chasing
A flirt pole is a long stick with a toy attached to the end, which simulates prey movement.
✔ Move the toy around for your dog to chase, promoting fast movement and coordination.
✔ Ideal for breeds with strong prey drive, like Terriers and Sighthounds.
✔ Sessions of 10-15 minutes help burn energy quickly.
✔ Tip: Always let your dog “catch” the toy occasionally to prevent frustration.
2.5 Socialization and Playdates
Dogs burn energy through social interaction with other dogs.
✔ Arrange doggy playdates with friends or neighbors.
✔ Take them to a dog park for supervised play.
✔ Choose dogs with similar energy levels to prevent frustration.
✔ Tip: Socialization is a natural way to tire dogs out while improving their social skills.
3. Mental Stimulation to Prevent Hyperactivity
Physical exercise alone isn’t enough—dogs also need mental engagement to prevent boredom.
3.1 Food Puzzles and Interactive Feeders
Instead of feeding from a bowl, make mealtime a mental challenge.
✔ Use slow-feeder bowls to encourage problem-solving.
✔ Try treat-dispensing toys (KONG, puzzle mats).
✔ Hide kibble around the house and let your dog search for their food.
✔ Tip: Mentally stimulated dogs are calmer and less likely to act out.
3.2 Teach New Commands and Tricks
Training focuses a dog’s energy and improves obedience.
✔ Start with basic commands (sit, stay, down, heel).
✔ Progress to fun tricks (spin, shake, play dead).
✔ Use short, frequent training sessions (5-10 minutes) for best results.
✔ Tip: Always end training sessions on a positive note with treats and praise.
3.3 Nose Work and Scent Games
Dogs love using their sense of smell, and scent games challenge their brain.
✔ Hide treats or favorite toys around the house and let your dog find them.
✔ Create a DIY scent trail with food leading to a reward.
✔ Use snuffle mats to encourage slow, rewarding searches.
✔ Best for: Beagles, Bloodhounds, and Shepherd breeds.
4. Structure and Routine to Reduce Hyperactivity
Hyperactive dogs thrive on structure and predictability.
✔ Set fixed meal times, walks, and play sessions to create a routine.
✔ Provide a quiet time area where your dog can relax.
✔ Teach a “calm down” command (e.g., “Settle”) to encourage relaxation.
✔ Tip: Overstimulation can make some dogs more hyperactive—include rest periods throughout the day.
5. Signs Your Dog Needs More Exercise
If your dog is still restless after regular walks, they might need more stimulation. Signs include:
✖ Non-stop pacing or whining
✖ Chewing or digging excessively
✖ Jumping on furniture or people
✖ Barking excessively
✖ Zoomies (running frantically indoors)
If you notice these behaviors, try adding a second walk, more playtime, or mental enrichment activities.
6. When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog remains hyperactive despite exercise and training, they may need professional help.
✔ Excessive hyperactivity could be a sign of anxiety or behavioral issues.
✔ Some dogs benefit from canine behaviorists who specialize in impulse control.
✔ Certain medical conditions (thyroid issues, ADHD-like behavior) may cause restlessness—consult a vet if needed.
Final Thoughts
Hyperactive dogs need a balance of physical activity, mental stimulation, and structure to stay happy and well-behaved.
✔ Provide long walks, runs, and playtime daily.
✔ Engage their mind with puzzle toys, nose work, and training.
✔ Use agility exercises and socialization for controlled energy release.
✔ Establish a routine and quiet time to teach relaxation.
By following these energy-burning activities, your dog will be calmer, happier, and healthier, making life easier for both of you.