Question
My family owns a one year old pet Visla named Rivet. He has always had energy out the wazoo, sometimes it can be fun but other times it is just plain annoying. Does anyone have any ideas on how to control the energy? My goal is not to eradicate the energy at the source but rather train him to calm down on command.
Answer
My goal is not to eradicate the energy at the source but rather train him to calm down on command.
Before you start, decide what you want the "calm" command to be called. I use "settle down". Also decide if you want this command to have your dog sit or lay down, but one or the other is best.
It is really hard to start training if your dog is super hyper already, so start when he has a medium or low energy level. If he is not up already, call your dog to come to you.
Have your dog sit/down as you preferred. Have him stay there, and just watch him. You have to be careful to watch, because I have found dogs to try to "do ALL the things I know" in hopes of a reward. When your dog is calmer IMMEDIATELY, say the command softly and gently, and praise him softly, gently, smile wide, and pet softly, gently, methodically. Of course, your dog is not going to go from shaking in excitement to silent statue the first time, so just watch for improvements, and build from there.
Keep repeating the process and gradually you'll be to the place where you only need to say the command, and only give praise when the dog does so. If the dog does not calm down, it is very important not to give up. Just wait, even if it means standing awkwardly at a street corner for five minutes. Remember to use the command in different situations, so that your dog can perform in the house or if meeting a baby in the park.
Once your dog knows the command, you can also teach your dog similar commands like "be gentle", or "be nice" when accepting treats or interacting with others (say, children).
He has always had energy out the wazoo, sometimes it can be fun but other times it is just plain annoying.
A lot of times dogs are excited because their owners are excited. (And often it is because the dog is excited). It's a vicious cycle.
It always helps for you to be a more predictable, calmer, more confident person as well. Your dog will notice and be less anxious. Dogs also really like schedules, so if you're more of a spontaneous person, being more ritualistic can help a dog be calmer, because he know what will happen next. This is never an answer anyone expects to hear, but it is very true.
Of course, it can only do so much. Dogs have pent up energy, too, and walks are what will take your dog from an 11/10 on the energy scale down to a 5. The calmer, more confident, more scheduled/ritualistic can take him down to a 3 or 4. Generally speaking, of course.
Answered By - rlb.usa
