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Energetic dogs can be a lot of fun for the right owner with the right attitude. However, they can also be a handful, and not every potential owner is up to the challenge. Helping an energetic rescue dog starts with deciding whether or not you have what it takes to handle a high energy canine. If you do feel like you're up to the challenge, you will still need to follow through on the commitment, even when the going gets tough.

High energy dogs need room to run. That doesn't necessarily mean a large yard, although if you have one, that's ideal. A large home can give a pooch plenty of room to move, but only if you keep breakables in safe locations and make sure your dog has a clear path through the house. Understand that some dogs are going to need to be in motion. If the thought of an animal "running around" in your house bothers you, then a high energy dog is not for you.

When an energetic dog does not get enough exercise, he will feel anxious and take out his frustrations by barking and chewing. While disciplinary measures such as a shock collar or squirt bottle can be somewhat effective, it is better to prevent the problems in the first place by making sure your dog has an outlet for his energy. Walk him as often as you can, and play games like fetch and tug of war to wear him down.

When you do walk your high energy dog, you may find he tries to pull you. A face collar or choke chain can go a long way towards maintaining control over your pet. I do not recommend pinch collars, since they break easily. My Lab consistently broke hers and ended up running loose. For smaller high-energy dogs, using a harness instead of hooking the leash to your dog's collar may be sufficient to ensure a pleasant walk.

Understand that high energy dogs do not enjoy being left in crates. If a dog wants out of a crate badly enough, he will find a way to get out. My Lab retriever rocked her crate against the walls, doing thousands of dollars of damage to the house, in order to escape. We have since learned that it is better to allow her to run free in the house. Crates are not the answer to dealing with high energy dogs!

If your dog is both high energy and aggressive, a muzzle is a must. Training your dog is a great goal to have, but do not rely on training to prevent your dog from attacking other dogs, or even humans. Make sure to get one that restricts your dog's ability to bite while still allowing him to pant and drink. He needs to be able to stay cool without being allowed to bite people or other dogs.

Finally, be aware that having a high energy dog means that sometimes, things are going to get chewed, broken, eaten, or torn. You will have to learn to keep things out of your dog's reach, and when you slip up, accidents will happen. Your peaceful afternoons will often be interrupted with fits of barking, and your floors will take extra wear and tear from your dog running through the house. To care for an energetic dog, your love for your pet has to be greater than your fondness for your possessions. You can work on training and hope that in time, your dog will improve. However, going into any relationship expecting change is a recipe for disappointment. If you cannot accept your rescue dog as he is now, consider getting a different pet instead.

Learn more about this author, Raven Lebeau.
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