The Honeymoon Is Over: My New Dog Is Always Hyper!

It’s common – and even normal – for newly adopted dogs
to display behavioral issues. From dogs that completely shut down
to hyper-stimulated dogs, you can help your dog adjust to his new home!

In this post, our very own Training & Behavior Modification Expert,
Fran Menley takes a closer look at K9 hyper-stimulation.

In our series, “HELP! The Honeymoon is Over with My New Dog!” we continue to examine common, but unwanted behaviors a newly adopted dog may begin to display in their new home.
In this new post, we’ll give you a clearer understanding of K9 hyper-stimulation.

Unwanted Behavior Does NOT Mean a Bad Dog

As mentioned in our last blog post (dealing with K9 fear and anxiety), typically when an adopted dog begins to “act out,” it’s caused by three primary issues: lack of proper socialization, history and Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS).

But unwanted behaviors and prior issues do not automatically label a dog as “bad” or one that cannot be successfully rehabilitated. With a professional behavior modification expert using the right tools, patience, commitment and leadership, a dog’s behavior can be eliminated (or diminished) and modified to more desirable behaviors. (We can help!)

Modifying or changing unwanted canine behaviors and issues requires the full commitment of not only the owner but the entire family. Working with your dog once every week or two when the trainer is present will simply not be successful.

Everyone must commit – and actively participate – in working with their dog each and every day following the rules, boundaries and homework laid out by the trainer. Your K9 must be a family priority! Consistency, compassion (and maybe a little cussing), your dog will learn how to successfully modify their behavior into the desired outcomes.

What is Canine Hyper-Stimulation?

While most happy and balanced dogs are able to relax and remain calm, those who are anxious, unbalanced or stressed may become hyper and possibly even aggressive. This is especially true when a newly adopted dog is trying to adapt – or fit in – to his new surroundings (with new unfamiliar sights, smells and sounds) and humans. In other words, sensory overload!

While appropriate mental stimulation is a positive thing for your canine, too much stimulation (hyper) can be equally negative on your dog’s overall mental and physical health.

Note: An energetic dog is not necessarily a hyper-stimulated dog. Over-stimulated dogs cannot effectively calm themselves down.

What’s Behind K9 Hyper-Stimulation?
Hyper-stimulation can emerge for a number of reasons:

• The dog is bored.
• The dog is anxious (So what is triggering this anxiety/anxious behavior?).
• The dog is naturally excitable and hyper-vigilant (a breed characteristic) and has not been taught self-control or self-calming behaviors.
• The dog is over-stimulated by excessive attention or rewards for hyper behaviors.
• There is a lack of consistent routine, exercise, training and effective engagement in appropriate activities.

“Hyper-stimulated dogs are often being triggered or forced into situations
that push them over their own threshold when they are being exercised.”
Fran Menley, Training & Behavior Modification Expert, Creating Forever Dogs

Logically it might seem that a hyper dog needs less stimulation, but actually, the reverse is true. Both the dog’s mind and body need to be engaged in the right kind of activity that positively channels and expends their energy. The release of pent-up energy will help your dog restore his natural state of balance and calm.

The Connection Between Anxiety and Hyper-Stimulation

Dr. Caroline Perrin at the Sydney Animal Behavioural Service acknowledges that anxiety is sometimes behind the hyperactive behavior:

“These dogs are often hyper-vigilant and need to constantly
keep an eye on their environment. They sleep with ‘one eye open’
and they react and respond to many things in the environment
that other dogs ignore.”

Fran agrees with Dr. Perrin and advises addressing hyperactive dog behavior with effective impulse control:

“You will be doing yourself and your puppy, young or
older adult dog a huge favor by teaching them impulse control and how to calm themselves.”

Options for Effectively Addressing Hyper-Stimulation

Being able to effectively address your dog’s hyper-stimulation requires an expert understanding of your dog’s underlying issues and drives that are causing him to become overly stimulated.
Engage the services of a professional training and behavior expert before your dog’s hyper-stimulation escalates into unhealthy and unwanted behaviors. A professional K9 behaviorist will be able to define the underlying issues and incorporate the proper activities and boundaries to help your dog naturally release their energy through:

• Daily leashed walks with plenty of opportunities to explore their surroundings with their nose which fulfills and satisfies their natural instincts and behaviors.
• Daily obedience training.
• Regular training in sports such as agility, tracking and many others.
• A canine-friendly “job” like herding, nose work and search and rescue.

A  tired dog, whose physical and mental needs have been adequately met, will be able to effectively settle down and relax, bringing peace and calmness to your home!

Our mission at
Creating Forever Dogs
is to assist current and future pet parents create a
forever, harmonious home with their forever dogs!

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Do You Need Help with Your Dog?

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Additional Reading:
1. Restoring Calm Dog Behaviour
www.dogslife.com.au/dog-news/dog-training/restoring-calm-dog-behaviour

2. How to Calm a Hyperactive Dog
www.dogslife.com.au/dog-news/calm-hyperactive-dog

3. 4 Signs Your Dog Is Overstimulated
iheartdogs.com/4-signs-your-dog-is-overstimulated/

4. 17 Stimulating Jobs for Your Dog
www.somethingwagging.com/17-stimulating-jobs-for-your-dog/