Some dog owners find themselves getting frustrated by the level of activity their new dog is exhibiting, especially when it is paired with destructive behavior (like chewing). If you are a parent, then you'll remember when (or be experiencing now!) the activity bursts that a toddler gets as soon as they figure out how to walk, and then, run. All that energy is part of their learning process. Large and small motor skill development. Balance. Muscle building. Teething.
Same holds true for your dog. They need to run, jump, crawl, climb, dig, search, hide and chew. The mistake some owners make is that they try to control this energy rather than help the dog expend the energy. A puppy will do well with two or three 30 minutes walks a day to burn off their excess energy, a mature dog with about two 30 minute walks a day, and an older dog with either two 15 minute walks, or one easy 30 minute walk, depending upon their hip and joint lubrication.
Once that energy is burned off, you'll find your dog will listen better, come back to the house pooped and rest for a few hours, become a better listener on the walks because, as creatures of habit, they recognize it as part of their daily activity. Even if you are time-strapped, as most of us are, find the time to take your dog out and you'll reap the rewards of a well-behaved pet. If you don't have the time, invest in the services of a dog walker, even if only a few times a week and you'll have a much happier home environment, with a dog who is HAPPY to see you come home, rather than ANXIOUS, waiting for your return.
