Labradors are usually regarded as not being “high energy” dogs. However, what people fail to realize is that labs do love to be active. However, they aren’t as busy as high energy dogs such as huskies, shepherds, or other working dogs. Nevertheless, Labradors love playing and getting lots of exercise.
Labradors often seem to have a lot of energy, particularly when young or if they aren’t getting enough exercise. There’s good news if you wonder whether your dog will calm down as they age. They usually do, but there are ways you can direct that energy in the right direction if you need to slow down some of their activity sooner rather than later.
Are Labradors Calm Dogs?
One of the reasons so many people prefer labs over other breeds is because they are generally calmer than other dogs. Nevertheless, they can still show signs of hyperactivity in the early stages of their lives. During the puppy stage, your Lab is probably going to want to play a lot.
Labradors learn about the world through play, just like children. Playing gives children a chance to explore, test boundaries, and discover what they are capable of. In spite of Labs growing up to be great family dogs, they still depend on you to keep them happy and tired.
As with any puppy breed, Labradors are prone to puppy destruction. It’s not uncommon to see a Lab run around doing “zoomies,” which are short bursts of intense activity that are known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs). You may wonder how to deal with your precious dog’s constant barking or chewing on everything in sight, as well as when they will ever calm down. Fortunately, this is outgrown with time.
Why is My Labrador Retriever so Hyper?
You might wonder why your dog is hyper. Usually, you can determine why your lab has so much energy by looking at its behaviour. Understanding the root cause will allow you to address the reason. There is a common saying among dog owners that a tired dog is a well-behaved one, and that certainly applies to Labradors. Here are some of the more common reasons:
They’re Bored
It is important for dogs to have something to do. Although they’re inside your house or in your backyard, they have nothing to do, especially when everyone is busy. In getting a dog, you accept the responsibility of meeting all of the animal’s needs, including mental stimulation. It is important for your pup to be mentally stimulated or to find something to keep them entertained. If you do not provide stimulation for your Lab, you’ll notice much more hyperactivity as they try to entertain themselves.
They’re Afraid
Some hyperactivity is actually a sign of anxiety or fear. You might want to check out what is scaring your dog if they are barking more and seem more active. There are Labs that are naturally timid, and they find that even more scares them than a normal dog would. People walking by or cars on the street may cause these dogs to bark and become anxious. In turn, this may cause hyperactivity since the nervous energy has to be expended somewhere. It is also possible that your pup may have been traumatized, which could have created phobias and resulted in the nervous energy.
They Don’t Have Enough Food
If your pup seems overactive around mealtime, it might be because you’re not feeding it enough, or they’re not liking the food you provide. Whatever the case, the end result is that your pup is starving and getting increasingly agitated. They are trying to communicate they’re hungry with their actions.
They Need More Exercise
It is not surprising that your pup is hyperactive if you don’t take them for daily walks. Every dog needs proper exercise, and that includes being walked on a regular schedule. It is common to see hyperactive and destructive behaviours at home when you don’t exercise your labrador often. Whenever you cannot take your dog out for a walk, you should let them out to play.
They’re Young
Young dogs are simply more energetic than older ones. As your pup ages, their energy level will mellow, but you should expect them to want to run frequently in his first 3-5 years.
They Are Aging and Experiencing Cognitive Decline
Labradors can be hyperactive, especially aimlessly, as they grow older. In particular, if it happens at night, this may indicate a cognitive decline.
Will My Labrador Retriever Ever Calm Down?
As your dog grows older, it is likely that it will calm down, especially if you take into account all of the most common causes of their agitation. The hyperactivity can be managed if you already meet your dog’s needs. It should eventually go away as the dog gets older.
How Do I Get my Labrador Retriever to Calm Down?
There are some very simple ways you can change your routine to make your pup happier and more manageable at home if you’re looking to keep them happy. These small changes in your dog’s day won’t require much effort on your part but can make a huge difference in their mental and physical well-being.
Exercise Your Labrador More
Exercise is the easiest way for you to reduce your dog’s hyperactivity. Take your dog for a walk or two during the day. You can also play tug-of-war with them inside. Exercise will help your dog release the pent-up energy that otherwise would cause behavioural problems.
Provide Puzzle Toys or Other Mental Stimulation
Providing your pup with mental stimulation toys cuts down on misbehaviour when you can’t exercise them. Several puzzle toys can be loaded with kibble or treats that your dog will have to figure out in order to retrieve. It takes your dog some time to use these, which means less time for them to misbehave. They also reduce energy levels to reduce hyperactivity.
Train Your Labrador
You can likewise reduce your dog’s hyperactivity by training them. Additionally, training your dog also gives you the opportunity to work with your dog physically and mentally. By teaching your dog tricks, you’re simultaneously setting clear boundaries for them. This also cuts down on misbehaviour.
Choose Food Carefully
Dog food plays a crucial role in your dog’s health. The market offers a lot of food that is equivalent to feeding a child fast food or garbage every day. Choosing high-quality dog food, however, can make a marked difference in your dog’s behavior. A lot of lower-quality food is loaded with corn syrup, sugar, and empty calories that are bad for your dog. Consider something healthy, natural, and without added sugars in place of these.
Reward Calmness
The last thing you should do is ignore hyperactivity directed at you (barking, jumping, etc.) and reward your dog when they are calm. If your dog is calm, you can shower them with attention once they have calmed down. It is also acceptable to pet the dog when she sits down when you come home for the first time. The only way to get what your dog wants (your attention) is to be relaxed first. By rewarding only calm behavior and ignoring bad behaviour, you teach them this.
When to Go to the Vet to Help Calm My Labrador Retriever
Dogs are known to be hyperactive to some extent. If, however, you notice more hyperactivity after implementing the advice above, and your dog is older than 4 or 5, then you might want to consult a veterinarian. It’s always a smart idea to have your pup checked out if they seem hyperactive suddenly when they haven’t been before.
Conclusion
In spite of the fact that puppy hyperactivity can be frustrating, it is usually temporary. You’ll find that the puppy stage is difficult, but when your pup becomes a happy, healthy dog, it’ll be totally worth it. While you wait for it to pass, keep in mind that your hyperactive pup just wants to be around you. You should not be annoyed by your puppy’s excessive energy. It just doesn’t know what to do with it.
Marshall Newton stands as an authoritative figure in the world of dog care and training, enriched by over 40 years of hands-on experience. His lifelong journey with dogs has seen him own over 20 canines from a diverse range of breeds, making him a versatile expert in the field.
Marshall's expertise doesn't stop at general dog care; he's also a specialist when it comes to French Bulldogs. As the founder of "Little French Dog," Marshall provides invaluable advice and resources for both new and seasoned Frenchie owners. Whether it's understanding breed-specific traits or discovering new care tips, Marshall is the go-to resource in the Frenchie community.
Interested in learning more? Feel free to connect with Marshall on LinkedIn for a deeper dive into his professional background and a wealth of canine insights.
