by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: November 13, 2008   Last Updated: December 19, 2008

So that cute bundle of joy that gazed at you with languishing eyes, pleading you to be adopted has turned out being an out of control rascal once in your home. While this rescue dog surely exhibits quite some fresh zest for life, this situation has left you quite baffled as you wonder how to cope with this very much unforeseen situation.

Dogs are just as people, there are those that are the canine equivalent of passive couch potatoes, and there are those that simply can't stay a day without a workout. Breed and temperament do seem to play a major role. So any time you foster, rescue or adopt a new dog, make sure you do your research and investigate on the dog's breed requisites and overall temperament.

Generally speaking, breeds like Dalmatians, Jack Russells, Border Collies, Huskies and Retrievers are defined as high energy dogs. Many have a history of having been working breeds that had an every day task to keep their bodies conditioned and their minds animated..

An energetic dog is simply a dog with a high demand for activity. They may require more exercise than other dogs, as well as mental stimulation. In order to keep energetic dogs calm and well behaved, you will need to dedicate time and energy to meet this dog's physical and mental demands.

All dogs really need exercise, however, it is the level of exercise needed that makes the big difference. For a Chihuahua for instance, prancing around your living room all evening may meet its physical needs, while a Labrador may need much, much more. Owners often dismiss the fact that each dog breed was developed for a purpose: serving humans in their work.

Historically, dogs in the wild used to move along with their pack for hours and days simply tracking down smells and darting at high speed after prey. Movement was the key for their survival so this basic need is innate, deep down in their genes. Later on through history, these same dogs were therefore used by humans for hunting game or herding sheep. These dogs spent the entire day working and then spent the remaining evening in their homes with their master.

Domestication has caused dogs to become housebound, bored and lazy. Many dogs are obese because the input of food exceeds their output of energy. Some develop behavior problems because their life lacks that necessary incitement to keep them entertained. Restrain these high powered dogs from exercise, and they will bring to light their own creative ways to keep themselves entertained, this may transpire

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