Got a dog with energy levels that rival a toddler on a sugar high? Whether you’ve welcomed a bouncing Border Collie, a vivacious Vizsla, or a cheeky Jack Russell Terrier into your life, managing and training a high-energy dog can feel like a full-time job.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help you turn that whirlwind of wagging tails into a well-behaved, happy hound. With the right training, plenty of activity, and natural, energy-sustaining treats, your pup can be a superstar.

What breeds (and ages) are considered ‘high energy’?

Some dog breeds are naturally wired to be high-energy. These pups were often bred to perform tasks like herding, hunting, or working, so they come pre-loaded with stamina to burn. Breeds like:

Border Collies and Australian Shepherds: Herding breeds with laser focus and boundless energy.
Jack Russell Terriers and Fox Terriers: Small but mighty with a love for mischief.
Labradors and Golden Retrievers: Friendly energy machines who love a good game of fetch.
Vizslas, Weimaraners, and Pointers: Hunting breeds with legs built for running.

It’s not just about breed, though. Puppies and adolescents (dogs under two years) are typically more hyperactive as they’re still figuring out their boundaries – and they’ve got the zoomies to prove it!

Why high-energy dogs need a special approach

High-energy dogs are like athletes. They need exercise, structure, and mental stimulation to thrive. Without enough outlets for their energy, they can develop undesirable behaviours like:

Excessive barking (at anyone or anything)
Chewing furniture and other items (RIP to your favourite shoes)
Jumping on visitors
Digging up the backyard like it’s a treasure hunt

The trick? Keep their energy bank empty! Proper training and activity can help you channel that boundless enthusiasm into positive behaviour.

Training tips for high-energy dogs

So you’ve got a high-energy little mischief-maker on your hands. Try the following techniques to channel their boundless energy into positive behaviour and turn training time into a fun, rewarding experience for both of you. These techniques will help keep your pup happy, focused, and tuckered out!

1. Set the foundation: Obedience training

Before tackling advanced tricks, nail the basics like sit, stay, and leave it. High-energy dogs can get distracted easily, so train in short, engaging sessions with plenty of positive reinforcement (and some WAG treats as rewards). Use a happy voice, keep commands consistent, and reward them the second they get it right.

2. Embrace the "work for it" mentality

High-energy dogs love a challenge, so turn their training into a game. Incorporate:

Hide-and-seek: Teach them to find you or a hidden toy.
Agility training: Use household items to create obstacles.
Scent work: Hide treats and let their noses lead the way.

When you make training fun, your dog won’t even realise they’re learning!

3. Stay calm and confident

Energetic dogs mirror your emotions. If you’re stressed or yelling, they’ll amp up their energy. Stay calm, assertive, and patient. Dogs thrive on consistency, so stick to your training plan and routines.

4. Avoid negative reinforcement

High-energy dogs thrive on positivity, so avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement during training. Yelling, scolding, or physical corrections can confuse your dog and even increase their anxiety or energy levels. Instead, focus on redirecting unwanted behaviour and rewarding the good stuff. For example, if your pup is chewing on the couch, calmly offer them a chew toy or a long-lasting treat like a WAG bully stick as an alternative. Remember, dogs learn best in a supportive environment where they feel safe and encouraged to succeed.

Keep them busy: Physical and mental stimulation

When your pooch has energy to burn - it has to go somewhere (and preferably not towards your favourite shoes). Daily physical and mental stimulation is essential to channel that energy into something productive and positive. A tired dog is a happy dog, so make sure to incorporate activities that engage both their body and mind.

By keeping your dog physically active and mentally stimulated, you’ll not only save your shoes but also have a calmer, more content companion at the end of the day!

Daily exercise

High-energy breeds need at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity every day. High-energy dogs love:

Fetch: Combine cardio with mental stimulation by adding commands like ‘sit’ before throwing the ball.
Running: If you’re a jogger, bring your furry sidekick.
Hiking: Trails are a treasure trove of smells, sights, and adventures.
Dog beach: Long stretches of sand and other doggos provides the perfect combination of physical exercise and social interaction for your high-energy pup. Let them run, dig, splash in the waves, and make new furry friends while you enjoy the seaside vibes.

Mental stimulation

Physical exercise alone won’t cut it – their brains need a workout too! Here’s how:

Puzzle toys: Keep your dog busy while you’re away with interactive puzzles that hide treats.
Training new tricks: Once they’ve nailed the basics, challenge them with advanced commands.
DIY fun: Fill a cardboard box with crumpled paper and a few treats for a treasure hunt they’ll love. Or try whipping up one of our delicious DIY WAG recipes!

Treats that match their energy

With all that activity, it’s tempting to reward your dog with treats left and right. But not all treats are created equal. For high-energy dogs, you’ll want low-calorie, natural treats that fuel their playtime without adding unnecessary bulk.

Here’s why WAG’s natural dog treats are perfect:

Sustained energy: Treats like Beef Jerky or Kangaroo Tendons provide protein-packed energy without the crash.
Chew time: Long-lasting treats like Bully Sticks or beef ribs keep your dog occupied and satisfied.
No nasties: WAG treats are 100% natural – no fillers, sugars, or artificial stuff,

Want to keep your dog entertained while you’re out? Try stuffing treats into a puzzle toy. It’s a great way to make your dog work for their reward while staying mentally stimulated.

Hacks for taming your high energy hurricane

Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on predictability. Schedule meals, walks, and playtime at the same times every day.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats, toys, or praise to encourage repetition.
Redirect, don’t punish: If your dog’s chewing the couch, redirect them to a chew toy rather than telling them off.
Short sessions, big results: High-energy dogs can get distracted, so keep training sessions short and sweet – think 10-15 minutes.
Tire them out before training: A quick play session before training can help burn off excess energy, making them more focused.
Be patient: Progress might be slow at first, but consistency is key.

Consistency + patience = the key to success!

Training a high-energy dog can feel like running a marathon (except you’re probably doing laps in your backyard instead).

Celebrate small wins and stay consistent. Every accomplishment brings you closer to having a happy, well-trained companion.

Happy training, happy dog!

Training a high-energy dog might feel like a challenge, but with the right mindset, plenty of activity, and some delicious WAG dog treats, you’ll have a well-behaved best friend in no time. Remember, the key is to work with their energy, not against it. Embrace their enthusiasm, keep them busy, and watch as they thrive.