How to Train A Hyperactive Dog...
Each dog has their own personality, but adult dogs and puppies can be particularly hard to train when they are hyperactive. Hyperactive dogs have a higher energy level and shorter attention spans than the average dog. However the key to training is working with that energy and not against it.
1
Before you start training - either obedience or tricks, try and decrease your pets energy level. Take them for a 20 minute walk or a quick trip to the dog park. Remember you are trying to lower their energy level so they can focus on you easier - if your dog or puppy gets too tired, they won't pay attention and will be more focused on taking a nap.
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Step 2
Choose a motivating item. Some dogs are motivated by food, favorite toy, clicker or other method. Give them the item or food when they have performed the skill or trick you requested. And always remember to praise them when they have listened well or if they are making the attempt to learn.
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Step 3
Training should be done in a quiet area with limited distractions. This forces your pet to focus on you and not everything else. The best place to start is individually in an obedience class or in a quiet room in your home.
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Step 4
Hyperactive dogs usually need to be stimulated more mentally than the average dog. Instead of teaching obedience skills like a traditional class, turn the training session into a game. For example, if you are trying to get them to come on command, make gestures indicating "play" and they will automatically come over. When they start coming to you, give them the command to come. Eventually they will make the association.
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Step 5
Mix games and tricks in with basic obedience skills. Puppies and dogs with high energy levels are more likely to learn games faster than average. For example, my dog learned how to touch an object on the ground faster than sit because there was a treat under the object she had to touch. Seeing a reward made her want to work for it.
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Step 6
Keep the reward visible. If they see they are going to get a treat for good behavior, they are more likely to work for it...
