25 Jun Hyperactivity In Dogs

We often hear phrases like “My dog is never quiet“, “My dog is very restless”, and “My dog never gets bored”. If you feel the same about your dog, be aware that this behaviour isn’t normal. Although hyperexcitability is common in puppies, this disease (either physiological or pathological) isn’t a normal behaviour in adult dogs or puppies. This problem can be a sign of their hyperactivity. In this article, you will learn about hyperactivity in dogs, symptoms, causes and treatment of this common problem. So, stay tuned to the end of this article.

Types of Hyperactivity in Dogs

Before we talk about the clinical signs and treatment of hyperactivity, it’s necessary to know that there are two types of hyperactivity in dogs:

• Physiological hyperactivity
• Pathological hyperactivity

It’s important to understand that physiological hyperactivity can be learned by reinforcing a specific behaviour. This behaviour is probably due to separation disorders. On the other hand, pathological hyperactivity is caused by dopamine changes in the brain and requires veterinary treatment. In this case, a dog trainer can’t solve the problem, he must go to a specialist veterinarian.

Symptoms of hyperactivity in dog

Since there are two different types of hyperactivity, we will explain the associated symptoms. Read carefully to find out if your dog suffers from any of them (remember the most common are physiological).

Physiological hyperactivity

These are some of the most common symptoms in puppies, but a puppy with this problem doesn’t always have all of these symptoms:

• Disruptive behaviour in the presence and/or absence of the trainer.
• In moments of play, the dog is very excited and sometimes loses control, and can even get hurt unintentionally.
• Inhibition of biting and other behaviours.
• The dog constantly gets attention, cries, howls and destroys things.
• Pervasive frustration (they don’t reach their goals, usually because the trainers don’t allow it).
• They respond very excitedly to any new stimulus.
• Usually have a sober attitude, but never fail to focus. When you command something like “sit”, the dog hears you and looks at you but doesn’t move and may even do the opposite of what you asked.
• Light and short sleep with panic at the slightest noise.
• Don’t learn what you teach him, due to the high level of stress, which is aggravated by the lack of sleep.
• He may not control the sphincters properly, and urinate anywhere without reason.

Pathological hyperactivity

Now that you know some of the possible symptoms of physiological hyperactivity, it’s time to compare them to the symptoms of pathological hyperactivity:

• The activity level is very high.
• Inability to relax, which can affect the dog’s normal sleep.
• Exaggerated response to various stimuli.
• Difficulty in learning is related to lack of sleep.
• Possible aggressive or reactive behaviour to various stimuli
• Barking or related behaviours
• Possible stereotypes (repetitive movements without a clear reason).
• Increased heart rate and breathing rate.
• Excessive salivation.
• High energy metabolism.
• High body temperature.
• Decreased urination.

Other general symptoms 

Hyperactivity is a very common problem among dogs, even more so when we consider that all puppies are full of energy. In most cases, the situation changes with growing up, but sometimes the anxiety of playing, walking or biting takes over their character. These can be signs of hyperactivity, something we can control through training techniques and other tricks. Diagnosing dog hyperactivity isn’t always easy, because dogs are naturally very active creatures. However, we should think about treating it when we see these symptoms. Other symptoms are as follows:

Your dog is constantly barking. 

Sometimes barking can be to get attention, order food or play, which is normal. But excessive barking or uncontrollable crying means an alarming psychological state. This is one of the first symptoms associated with this disorder.

Lack of control in games

This excessive hyperactivity may cause your dog to miscalculate his strength while playing and to be unable to control himself, for example, he may bite you.

Comfort outside the house. 

His poor ability to concentrate and hyperactivity can lead the dog to be comfortable anywhere, whether outdoors or indoors. If we observe these symptoms, it’s better to visit a veterinarian or a dog behaviourist to diagnose or rule out hyperactivity. Sometimes medication is only necessary in extreme cases because many times we can control the problem with natural methods, such as lots of physical exercise or some training techniques.

For example, agility is good for nervous dogs because it helps them focus and balance their energy. Practice obedience commands with them daily and reward their attention with treats.

Causes of hyperactivity in dogs

The causes of hyperactivity are specific and different in each case. 

Physiological hyperactivity

Usually, this behaviour is related to learning. Positive rewards reinforce certain effective behaviours, and the dog initiates more of these behaviours. Some examples are running around the house, barking when someone rings the doorbell, and playing wildly. When the dog seeks the family’s attention and the family pulls him away, this also reinforces the attention. There are many reasons for this behaviour, such as the previously mentioned separation problems. If you see your dog destroying things or acting like this when you aren’t home, separation anxiety could be the cause. Several reasons cause hyperactivity in dogs. Remember that hyperactivity in puppies is normal and not a behavioural problem. However, you can always work on your relationship with your puppy and reward calm behaviours that please you.

Pathological hyperactivity

Now that you know what causes hyperactivity, it’s important to understand what makes this behaviour problem pathological rather than physiological:

Pathological hyperactivity is a rare problem that occurs at a young age when the dog is still a puppy. It’s mainly caused by a change in the dopaminergic pathways of the limbic system (between the frontal cortex and the midbrain). It can also affect the production of serotonin and norepinephrine. Although rare, it can also happen to dogs that consume lead.

Diagnosis

Before starting the treatment, it’s necessary to make sure that our dog suffers from hyperactivity. The vet will likely test for physiological hyperactivity using methylphenidate, a type of amphetamine. Administering this substance can result in the dog reacting very excitedly (which rules out a pathological problem) or in a much calmer way (confirming that it’s a pathological problem). If the test is negative, we are probably dealing with a physiological problem, which generally affects dogs with these characteristics (although there may be exceptions):

• Young male dogs
• Dogs of more active breeds (Dalmatians, terriers…)
• Lack of welfare
• Lack of environmental enrichment and mental stimulation
• Early weaning, which can lead to learning difficulties
• Lack of social connection

Treatment

Choose a dog that has the behavioural characteristics you want.

Remember that dogs have different personalities, some of them don’t miss a moment of playing and moving, and some of them sleep all day. The treatment of hyperactivity in dogs depends on the factors that caused the dog’s hyperactivity. If your dog doesn’t have the necessary physical and mental activity, you should change his daily schedule and spend more time with him.

If your dog has severe reactions, you need to control him with training and exercise.

When you have a dog that needs your attention, you need to properly train him so that he learns that hyperactivity is nothing but misbehaviour. A dog with ADHD needs treatment and should be seen by a veterinarian to determine the correct treatment.

He needs open space.

Besides being able to play or walk outdoors, dogs also need more space at home. This issue isn’t always possible, but if possible, it’s better not to put too many obstacles so that he can circulate freely.

Get enough exercise.

At least three long walks a day and a dose of play are necessary for dogs. Activities that challenge the dog physically and mentally, such as agility or mind games, are ideal for them.

Dogs need a quiet environment.

A pleasant environment will help your dog relax. It’s necessary to have a comfortable and quiet place to rest and avoid loud noises and stimuli that disturb him.

Massage him.

Accompanied by soft music, they can be very relaxing for the dog. At least one session a day will help you fight your anxiety.

Pay attention and love him.

The dog may want more affection from us through his attitude. With patience, care and attention, we will fix the problem.

Remove the penalty completely.

Punishment means scolding, assaulting or yelling at the dog. A dog suffering from stress can hardly recover. If you want your dog to improve his behaviour, take this tip very seriously.

Avoid getting excited

Remember to ignore your dog’s aggressive behaviour. On the other hand, reinforce the calm behaviours you observe in your dog. For example, reward him when he’s quiet in his bed or sunbathing on the terrace.

To wrap up

Hyperactivity in dogs is more common than we think. So we should always be on the lookout for any signs and consult a vet when something doesn’t go right. In this way, we can stop this disease’s progress very soon. To have a healthy and lively dog, you must pay attention to nutrition, activity, health, grooming, etc. You can prevent the disease and have a healthy dog in this case. You can count on the specialized team of MishkaGrooming in all these steps. Our experienced and precise groomers have carefully and accurately groomed your dogs so they count the moments for the next session.