When we think of modern-day working dogs, we tend to think of breeds like kelpies, cattle dogs and collies rounding up sheep and other livestock. However, other traditional working breeds such as certain gundogs, hounds, terriers and the arctic breeds can also have excess energy to burn!

Unfortunately, if these very active dogs are not given a sufficient outlet for their energy, they may develop problematic behaviours, for example, reactive behaviour on walks such as lunging or growling, destructive chewing, digging tendencies, or excessive barking.

If your dog has a surplus of energy to burn, read on for our top tips on how to help keep them busy.

1. Daily physical exercise

Very active dogs require adequate daily exercise. Depending on their size, this may necessitate 45-90 minutes of brisk walking a day.

However, high-intensity activities such as swimming, agility training, or ball-chasing can be a great way of efficiently tiring out very active dogs, provided they don’t have any special medical needs which would make certain activities unsafe (e.g. joint instability). If you’re unsure about your dog’s general health, book them in for a thorough check-up with one of our vets.

2. Social opportunities

If your pet is sociable with other dogs, a regular activity such as doggy daycare is a great way of tiring them out physically and mentally. Safe inter-dog interactions and play, plus a whole lot of interesting new smells will make for one tired pet on the way home!

3. Home environmental enrichment

Even if your dog is hanging out at home, there is a huge array of environmental enrichment activities you can keep them busy with. Depending on your dog’s preferences, you could consider:

• Setting up a sandpit for them to dig treats out of
• A home-made enrichment box
• Scattering treats around the garden for them to sniff out
• Interactive puzzle toys
• Snuffle mats
• Lick mats
• Long-lasting dental chews or Kongs stuffed with pet-friendly foods such as peanut butter

For more tips on helping your hectic hound to become a calm, contented canine, ask our knowledgeable team!