by Katrina Murphy

Created on: November 14, 2008

An energetic rescue dog delights us with his antics for a few days and then we realize his energy is destroying the house along with our patience. Lack of exercise, pent up anxiety and certain breeding contribute to the over abundance of energy in dogs. Regardless of reason, methods abound for helping him learn the joy of relaxation and good behavior. To help an energetic rescue dog, we must assume strong leadership, provide outlets for his energy and maintain a routine consistent with nature.

-Exercise-

Ample exercise is central to the rehabilitation of dogs, especially dogs who bounce from the walls and into your china cabinet. Many people assume that a large backyard provides the space for a dog to run around and, essentially, exercise himself. The same idea goes for small dogs within a big house. However, this is far from the truth. Dogs equate the boundaries of our homes and yards to a large cage. Imagine yourself locked inside a mansion- roaming around is fun until boredom and anxiety prevail.

Dogs are nomadic by nature- they travel in search of food and fulfill their keen senses while exploring the environment. When we domesticate dogs, we have a responsibility to fulfill their instinctual needs. Otherwise, we breed unhappiness, anxiety and destruction. The most important step to helping an energetic dog is to take him for daily walks.

Energetic dogs reap more benefit from multiple walks, spaced throughout the day, than one long walk. Always walk before feeding time to work in agreement with his nature. Dogs travel to find food, so allow his walk to be his work for food. Strong leadership from us requires that we make dogs work for everything as this promotes positive behavior in every realm.

Walk for a minimum of 30 minutes per session, but aim for more when time permits. Look for different routes and areas to explore while walking because this entertains his lust for wandering. Take him running or hiking as rigorous exercise expends more energy in less time. If this is not possible, tools are available for providing more exercise.

-Exercise Tools-

Specialty backpacks are available for dogs to wear while walking. Carrying the additional weight of the backpack provides more exercise for the dog. Dogs psychologically benefit from having a job, as intended by their distinct breeding, so the backpack serves this purpose in addition to exercise. Search for "canine backpacks" on Google for a host of information and packs available for purchase.

If you have a treadmill,

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