How to calm down a dog when it's excited? - briefly
When a dog is excited, it can be helpful to redirect its energy into a calming activity, such as a gentle walk or a chew toy. Additionally, speaking in a soothing voice and providing a safe space for the dog to retreat can help it calm down.
How to calm down a dog when it's excited? - in detail
Calming an excited dog requires patience, understanding, and the right techniques. Here are some detailed steps to help you achieve this:
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Remain Calm Yourself: Dogs are highly perceptive and can sense your emotions. If you're anxious or stressed, your dog will pick up on these feelings and become more excited. Maintain a calm demeanor to signal to your dog that there's no cause for alarm.
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Ignore the Excitement: When your dog is overly excited, avoid interacting with it in ways that could be perceived as rewards. This includes talking to it, petting it, or playing with it. By ignoring the excitement, you're teaching your dog that this behavior doesn't get a response from you.
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Use the 'Sit' Command: If your dog knows commands like 'sit', use them to redirect its attention. Once your dog is sitting calmly, reward it with praise or a treat. This reinforces the idea that calm behavior is desirable.
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Reduce Stimulation: Limit exposure to whatever is causing the excitement. If it's another animal or person, remove them from the situation. If it's a particular toy or object, put it away until your dog has calmed down.
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Physical Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Ensure your dog gets enough physical exercise to release excess energy. A tired dog is more likely to be calm. Also, provide mental stimulation through puzzles or training sessions to keep your dog's mind engaged.
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Gradual Desensitization: If your dog is excited about specific triggers (like the doorbell), try gradual desensitization. Start by exposing your dog to a mild version of the trigger and reward calm behavior. Gradually increase the intensity over time.
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Consistent Training: Consistency is key in training your dog to remain calm. Ensure all family members use the same techniques and commands when interacting with your dog.
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Professional Help: If your dog's excitement seems unmanageable, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your dog's specific needs.
By implementing these steps consistently, you can help your dog learn to control its excitement and maintain a calmer demeanor.