Guilt tends to creep in when you realize the breed you chose may have been more than you bargained for but here’s why you don’t have to struggle much longer
Your Dog’s Nervous System Just Needs a Reset
While energetic breeds (Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs to name a few) definitely require more physical and mental exercise than the average dog, they’re also the ones who need the most decompression time in between activities.
Just like kids, dogs don’t naturally know how to relax. That’s why it’s so important your dog has designated spaces in the home to unwind.
And if you’re thinking, “Well, my dog naps, but they’re still misbehaved…”
That’s because your dog is resting on their terms (and not yours). Yes, they’ll eventually settle, but it’s almost always after they’ve already practiced unhealthy habits.
Enforce Routine Rest Times
Your goal is to get ahead of your dog hitting their highest levels of arousal, crashing, and then repeating the cycle moments later. Think of it like a sugar rush, and without proactivity on your side, the cycle will only habituate itself.
Instead, grab a piece of paper and write down 3–4 times per day when you’ll hold your dog accountable to resting for at least 20 minutes or longer.
The more routine this becomes, the more your dog’s nervous system learns how to regulate and the calmer they become.
Tools to Help You (And Your Dog)
A leash: Tethering your dog until they lay down and relax is one of the most effective ways to reinforce structured rest.
A raised cot: A designated “Place” helps your dog decompress by defining a clear boundary to abide by.
Treats: Used to reward calmness.
Patience: Your dog won’t be the calmest dog on the block in one afternoon, but they will be through routine practice.
In Closing
When you interrupt the cycle and teach your energetic dog how to calm their nervous system, you don’t just get a calmer dog, you get one that you can now take anywhere with you without hesitation.
You’ve got this!
If this resonated and you want help applying it with your dog, reach out anytime:
info@hopegablescanine.com
🐕✨
Nicolas Angione is the founder and head dog trainer at Hope Gables Canine, based in Fairfield County, CT. Inspired by his own dog's reactive journey and rehabilitation, he left his career behind to become a dog trainer. After years of shadowing other dog trainers in the industry, he started his own practice, which has successfully helped hundreds of dog owners, both domestic and abroad, regain peace and harmony with their dogs. Many of these success stories, dog training tips, and more can be found on their Instagram and YouTube pages.
