How to have a happy dog

[This was originally posted to the Fairmount Animal Hospital Website on 31 August 2008]


Dear Dr. Lee,

I’m the owner of a one year-old chocolate Lab. She’s driving me nuts! When I get home from work, she charges all over the house, barking and whining. Sometimes I find a chewed sneaker or evidence of counter surfing, too. We have been to puppy class and a basic obedience class and she graduated both. What else can I do?

Nuts in Onondaga


Dear Nuts,

Young dogs often exhibit an overabundance of energy. Sometimes this excess energy can spill over into undesirable behaviors, such as destructive chewing and excessive vocalizations and activity.

One of my favorite mantras in canine behavior is “A tired dog is a happy dog!” A dog who receives adequate amounts of exercise is less likely to exhibit the undesirable behaviors mentioned above. They will be less likely to overgroom, and will be happier and calmer overall. Additionally, multiple studies have shown that dogs in ideal body condition can have a longer life expectancy.

How much exercise your dog can have is largely dependent on your dog’s current body condition, health and age. Please consult your veterinarian for this type of advice specifically regarding your dog.

There are many ways to exercise your dog to suit your own personal activity level and time limitations. Here are some examples:

• Leash walks around your neighborhood with you or a dog walker
• Jogging or biking with you
• Fetch with a Frisbee or ball
• Play groups with other dogs at a dog park or doggie daycare
• Obedience or agility class
• Swimming
• Toys that reward the dog for playing with them, such as the Buster® Cube, the Kong® toy, and the Busy Buddy™ toys
• Chewing – please ask your veterinarian what toys or chew treats are appropriate for your dog
• Toy on a whip – attach a piece of fur (fake or real) or a ball to the end of a lunge whip – you can stand in place, and manipulate the whip so the toy flicks from side to side and around – while your dog runs circles around you.

Get out there and play and exercise with your dog – chances are you’ll both enjoy the shared activity and each other.

Sincerely,
Dr. Lee