by Pat Merewether

Created on: November 18, 2008   Last Updated: August 29, 2010

Rescue dogs may be very shy and timid when you first bring them home, but once they learn the lay of the land they may relax and let all their pent up energy lose.  This is when you need a plan to allow them to be their energetic selves, but also maintain your own posessions and sanity.

1. Provide plenty of exercise. Puppies, especially, have loads of energy and simply taking them for a brief walk will not calm them.  Ideally, a fenced in yard or area where they can run free for a while is best.  You still need to provide supervision as dogs may chew on plants or dig holes where they shouldn't.  Playing catch is great fun and gives both of you a bit of exercise. 

2.  Provide plenty of toys. There is a saying that dogs (and cats) feel that what is theirs is theirs and what is yours is theirs too. Be sure to redirect the dog to his own toys if he starts to chew the piano leg or drag the throw rugs into another room. If  your dog is small or you have room indoors, a gentle game catch will help use up a bit of extra energy.  Puppies need lots of chew toys, so make sure you have some in each room where he might be tempted to chew furniture or shoes.

3. Give the dog a lot of attention when he's doing the right thing. If he's happily trying to kill his stuffed panda, tell him what a good dog he is and play a gentle game of tug-o-war or give him a treat.

When he tries to drag the sofa cushion onto the floor, make a noise like Baaah!" or what you think his mother would growl and then direct him to his own toy and praise him when he starts to play with it.

4. Provide an area he can safely play in when you're not around.  For smaller dogs, a child's play yard, which is a sectional plastic playpen with no bottom provides a safe area for a pup to play without getting into trouble or harming himself. 

5. Even the most excitable and energetic dog can be calmed given enough time and attention. Attention is the key. Remain calm when working with your dog as he will pick up on your mood.  Try to stay on a schedule of exercise and feeding, which will help the dog learn to trust you and know what to expect. Having a routine will give your dog a stronger sense of security and this will also help him be calmer.

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