How to Calm Your Dog Down: Mastering Canine Leadership
Table of Contents
Introduction
Why Your Dog Might Be Acting Out
Techniques to Calm Your Dog Down
Addressing Specific Behavioral Issues
Introducing a “Wild” Training Method to Calm your Dog
When to Seek Additional Help
Conclusion
Introduction
Does your dog jump on visitors, bark excessively, or pull on the leash during walks? If so, you’re not alone. These common behaviors can be frustrating, but the good news is that they’re manageable with the right approach. At Wild Pack, we believe in rewilding pets and their people by helping you connect with your dog’s natural instincts. This includes understanding your dog’s behavior and addressing the root causes of their anxiety or hyperactivity. In this blog, we’ll explore how to calm your dog down using effective techniques that align with their natural instincts—and we’ll introduce you to the Dog Calming Code™, a powerful resource that can help you turn your dog into a calm, obedient companion.
Why Your Dog Might Be Acting Out
Dogs are descendants of wolves, and they carry with them the pack leadership instincts that their wild ancestors relied on. When a dog doesn’t know who’s in charge, they often misbehave. They might jump on people, bark at other dogs, or ignore your commands because they believe they’re the leader of the pack. These behaviors are not just random acts of disobedience—they’re signs that your dog is trying to figure out their place in your household.
In some cases, these behaviors might be linked to underlying anxiety in dogs. Signs of anxiety can include restlessness, barking, and even destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or shoes. Understanding these symptoms of anxiety can help you address the root cause of your dog’s actions.
Common triggers like loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or even a lack of exercise can exacerbate these behaviors. But by understanding your dog’s natural pack instincts, you can start to address these issues at their core.
Techniques to Calm Your Dog Down
Establishing Loving Leadership
One of the most important steps in calming your dog down is establishing yourself as the pack leader. This doesn’t mean being aggressive or domineering; it means using a calm, assertive energy level to communicate that you’re in charge. When your dog knows you’re the leader, they’ll naturally become more obedient and relaxed.Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is a calm dog. Regular physical exercise and mental challenges can help burn off excess pent-up energy and reduce anxiety. Without adequate exercise, hyperactivity in dogs can escalate, leading to more anxious behaviors. Make sure your dog gets plenty of physical activity, whether it’s through daily walks, playtime, or engaging toys that stimulate their mind.Safe Spaces
Creating a safe space for your dog is essential, especially if they’re prone to anxiety. A soft dog crate that mimics the feeling of a den like this one can provide the comfort and security they need. Whether you’re at home or traveling, having a familiar, secure space can help your dog feel more at ease. For dogs with separation anxiety, a safe space can be particularly beneficial in reducing stress when you’re away.Consistent Commands
Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog. Use clear, consistent commands, and make sure everyone in your household is on the same page. When your dog knows what to expect, they’re more likely to listen and respond positively. Consistent obedience training can significantly reduce anxiety and promote calm behavior in various situations.
Addressing Specific Behavioral Issues
Jumping on People
If your dog has a habit of jumping on visitors, it’s important to correct this behavior calmly. Assert your leadership by teaching your dog to greet people on all fours. Reward them when they stay down, and be consistent with this training. Reinforcing calm behavior in social situations will help your dog understand what’s expected of them.Excessive Barking
Excessive barking, especially around other dogs, can be a sign of anxiety or overstimulation. By reinforcing your leadership role and creating a calm environment, you can help reduce your dog’s barking. Use a calm tone to redirect their attention and reward quiet behavior. For dogs that are particularly sensitive to noise, using a white noise machine or sound machine can help mask external sounds and reduce barking.Leash Pulling
Leash pulling is a common issue that can make walks stressful for both you and your dog. To address this, use simple tricks to get your dog to follow you without pulling. Start by creating a calm environment before the walk, perhaps by using a soft dog crate with removable dividers to help your dog settle down before heading out. Incorporating physical exercise before walks can also help reduce pent-up energy that often leads to leash pulling.
Introducing a “Wild” Training Method
If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to your dog’s behavioral issues; one that’s rooted in their wild origins, the Dog Calming Code™ is one of our favourites here at Wild Pack. In fact, I used the Dog Calming Code™ techniques in training my own rescue pup, Ray. For that reason, we’ve partnered with the creator, Doggy Dan, to bring you 50% off (more info here)! Created by a renowned dog behaviorist and trainer, this course is designed to help you establish leadership in a gentle, effective way. Doggy Dan has worked with thousands of dogs and their owners, helping them overcome even the most challenging behaviors by understanding a dog’s natural pack psychology.
The Dog Calming Code™ is built around the 5 Golden Rules—simple psychological techniques that communicate to your dog that you’re the leader of the pack. Once your dog understands this, they’ll naturally become more obedient and relaxed, without the need for aggression or dominance.
Interested? Enroll for 50% off here.
Whether your dog is young, old, or a rescue, the Dog Calming Code™ can help you build a stronger, more peaceful relationship with your furry friend. By applying the 5 Golden Rules consistently, you’ll see a transformation in your dog’s behavior, from reduced anxiety to better obedience.
For dogs experiencing stressful situations such as Vet visits, applying these techniques can help them remain calm and cooperative. In some cases, music therapy with Classical music can also be an effective tool to calm your dog during such events, creating a positive experience out of a potentially stressful one. In fact, music therapy is a tool we use regularly at Wild Pack.
When to Seek Additional Help
While the techniques and tools mentioned in this blog can significantly improve your dog’s behavior, there may be times when professional help is needed. If your dog’s anxiety or hyperactivity persists, consider consulting a veterinarian or professional dog trainer who can provide additional support. In some cases, a vet might recommend anxiety medication as part of a broader strategy to manage stress in dogs.
It’s important to remember that behavioral changes can be a gradual process, and consistent effort will yield the best results. Patience, understanding, and a commitment to leadership are key to helping your dog achieve a calm, balanced state.
Conclusion
Calming your dog down isn’t just about managing their behavior—it’s about understanding their natural instincts and addressing the root causes of their anxiety or hyperactivity. By establishing yourself as the pack leader, providing regular exercise, creating safe spaces, and using consistent commands, you can help your dog become the calm, obedient companion you’ve always wanted.
Ready to take the next step in calming your dog down? Explore the Dog Calming Code™ and discover how you can turn your misbehaving dog into a tranquil “good boy” or “good girl” with simple, gentle techniques that work.
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