An eager, excited dog can be endearing—but they can also be overwhelming. Whether they’re barking, jumping, or spinning in circles whenever someone enters the house, these behaviors add extra stress to you, your guests, and your pup. The good news is that with the right approach, you can help your dog stay calm and focused—without dimming their lovable personality!
Identify the Root Cause
Sometimes, what we think is enthusiastic excitement could actually be anxiety, stress, or overstimulation. For example, guests entering the house might trigger genuine excitement if your dog associates visitors with attention or playtime—but it might trigger anxiety if they associate guests with loud noises or overstimulation.
Identifying the underlying cause is key in helping you address the behavior. Take a step back and observe the patterns. When does the excitement peak? Are there specific triggers?
Additionally, paying attention to your dog’s body language can help you identify whether they’re relaxed or anxious. To learn more about identifying and understanding the subtle signals, check out our blog on body language!
Focus on Stimulation and Enrichment
A common reason dogs become excessively excited is pent-up energy. If your dog isn’t getting enough physical activity or mental stimulation, they’ll find their own ways to release that energy….often in ways you might not want. Regular exercise, long walks, runs, hikes, or vigorous play sessions are all great ways to tucker your pup out.
Enrichment is just as important. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and scent-tracking games can work wonders for keeping your dog’s mind engaged. Structured play and problem-solving activities can also enhance your bond and improve overall behavior!
Implement Effective Training Techniques
Whether it’s structured obedience training or foundational basic training, training is essential in teaching your dog how to regulate emotions of any kind. Start by reinforcing calm behavior with positive reinforcement. For example, when your dog remains calm while guests enter, reward them with treats or praise. But if your dog is jumping up or barking excitedly, avoid giving them attention. Dogs are quick learners and will eventually connect calm behavior with positive outcomes.
Consistency is key in any form of training. Repeatedly practicing commands in both low-stress and high-stress situations will help your dog understand that calm behavior is always expected.
Manage Your Dog’s Excitement with Professional Virtual Training
Every dog is different, and every dog deserves tailored training to help them thrive.
So, if you’re looking for personalized support, look no further. At Fetch and More, our virtual training services are flexible, accessible, and adaptable. Whether you want to start your dog off with the basics or more specialized training like emotional service dog training, we have a course to fit the needs of both you and your dog.
It’s never too late to begin your training journey. To get started, visit our virtual training courses page to enroll in any of our courses. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re always happy to answer any questions, and help in any way we can!
