The festive season is a time of fun and excitement for us, and our pooches. But, just like us, they can find things a little overwhelming. There are so many new people, sights, sounds and, of course, delicious smells. Dogs may become overexcited with all this new input, leading to what we may perceive as behavioural issues.
Dogs thrive with routine and reassurance from their dog parents. Read on to discover effective and natural methods for calming down dogs.
First, let’s understand why and how our pooches become overexcited.
Overexcitement in dogs can happen for a range of different reasons, from changes in routine to stressful or exciting situations. During the festive period, our dogs can pick up the energy (and sometimes tension) in the air. This, combined with the addition of lots of new people, different surroundings filled with decorations and plenty of great smells, can make dogs feel off-balance, leading to a stressed or over-enthusiastic response.
This differs from a dog’s “normal” excitable behaviour which depends on how your dog acts day-to-day. Some dogs are just more excitable than others. Knowing what your pooch’s “normal” behaviours are will help to identify when they are becoming overexcited, allowing you to help calm them more effectively.
It’s important to understand and recognize the difference between an overexcited dog and a stressed dog. Both behaviours are initially caused by an increase in arousal, but depending on the situation, they can escalate and result in problematic behaviours.
Just like us, dogs become excited when they are happy or anticipating fun ahead - like walks or dinner! Their body language will often become loose and “wiggly”: they may have a fast-wagging tail and neutral or forward ears.
They can also demonstrate behaviours like jumping, spinning, barking and the “zoomies”. Once the exciting event happens, they may begin to settle. However, constant stimulation, such as multiple people petting them at the same time, loud noises and crowds, can lead dogs to become overexcited or stressed.
Dogs may become stressed when they are overwhelmed, fearful or frustrated. Their body language often becomes tense with their tail tucked between their legs or held stiffly with their ears pulled back or flattened. They may lick their lips, yawn, hide, bark persistently or pace back and forth, becoming restless or unable to settle.
Each dog has their own character and so will react to stressful situations differently. Experiences that some dogs find stressful may be a breeze to other dogs. It’s important to remember that they are all individuals, just like us humans!
Stressed dogs often remain unsettled for a period of time after the stressor has resolved. It is important to learn how to calm your dog down, whether that’s moving away from what they find challenging, alone time in a peaceful space, their favourite toy or by using natural remedies.
To make sure your pooch enjoys the festive season as much as you, it’s best to take preventative measures before celebrations and be prepared during them.
It’s always best to be prepared. Before big festive seasonal events why not take your dog for a long walk or have a play session with them to help burn off energy. This can help them to feel more settled during the event or when meeting visitors.
TrainingReinforce training cues like “settle”, “quiet” or “leave it” with treats and praise as part of your continued positive reward-based training. This will help calm an overexcited dog and help them feel more secure when distractions are happening.
Create Safe ZonesAhead of parties or celebrations, create a safe zone or room for your dog. Make the room a retreat, with food, water and low stimulation away from the festivities. Some dogs may appreciate covered crates, as it may provide a more secure feel. Why not add an ADAPTIL Calm Diffuser to create an even more peaceful haven.
The diffusers are odourless and release a pheromone only distinguishable by dogs, providing strong signals of comfort to pooches of all ages.
It’s okay to discuss your dog’s needs with your visitors ahead of time. Give them a heads up on how you’d prefer for them to interact with your dog and what sorts of games to play. This will help your dog to feel less overwhelmed when guests visit.
Parties can be difficult to schedule but try to gradually introduce your dog to your guests, rather than all at once. While us humans may be excited by the arrival of lots of friends and family, allowing your dog to meet guests slowly or later in the evening lets them process all the new scents and sounds in their own time.
Keep Their Minds and Mouths BusyIt’s a party so let them have a treat as well! Interactive toys like puzzle feeders, lick mats, snuffle mats, chews and toys can help your dog stay calm.
For more tips on how to support your pooch, keep exploring the ADAPTIL blog online. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to remain in the loop with all our latest updates!