How to Train a Hyperactive Puppy

Puppies and untrained dogs can cause you a lot of stress when you have guests over. If your puppy resorts to acting like a wild animal when people come to your house, it is important to teach them self-control right away. Delaying this will only make it more difficult on you in the end.

1. It is imperative that you are the "Alpha dog" of the house. If your puppy does not perceive you as the leader of the pack then they will have no problem ignoring your commands. Dogs needs to know who is in charge, and if there is a power struggle between you and them, it will result in confusion and disharmony for your dog. Once you become the Alpha you should have no problems with obedience training.

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Being the Alpha does not mean that you have to be big, strong and overly aggressive. Dogs understand body language more than your words. You will need to adopt the "Alpha" attitude, in which you would display quiet confidence, dignity, intelligence, and an air of authority. A good way to model this attitude is by watching a professional dog trainer or a seasoned dog obedience instructor. You will notice that they use their posture, voice and eyes to command respect from the dogs.

2. Puppies and most dogs require lots of exercise. If your dog acts up a lot of the time and they know you are the Alpha, then this is a sign that they have energy to burn. It is vital to give dogs and especially puppies adequate play time, where they can exercise their bodies and their minds. During play time with your puppy, start introducing daily obedience lessons. You want to keep it fun, so your puppy with want to stay engaged in the activity. A good command to begin with is "down-stay." Once your puppy learns that they will be rewarded for complying with this command, they will be much easier to manage around visitors.

3. Project an air of calmness. It can be quite challenging to remain calm and collected when dealing with a frenzy of fur that is "terrorizing" your guest(s) and your house. However, that being said if you react in an excitable manner, then your puppy will feed off of this energy and continue this behavior. This tactic ties in with being the Alpha -- dogs take their cues on how to act from the Alpha. So, running around and chasing them while shouting "No, Down, Off" will not be of any help. Remember you are in charge and keep a level head.

4. Diet can play a major role in how puppies and dogs behave. If your puppy's food has preservatives, food colorings and large quantities of grains/cereals then they may be more erratic. It is best to feed your puppy or dog a well balanced diet with no food colorings, preservatives, and low carbohydrates. Some dogs have been known to calm down practically overnight after switching to a healthier diet. Look for dog food that lists protein (i.e. chicken or lamb, preferably not the generic term "meat") as the first or second ingredient.

5. The next time a visitor knocks on your door attach your puppy's leash and take them to another room. After your guest has settled in a different room, calmly lead your puppy into the room and put them into a "down-stay." Before bringing your puppy in the room, ask your guest not to look at or speak to your puppy. If you puppy begins to act up reprimand them by making a loud noise, such as clapping or shaking a can of pebbles, and combine this with a guttural growl ("AAHH"). Once they calm down give your puppy some quiet praise, so they learn the difference between good and bad behavior. Remember to stay consistent, and keep this routine any time a visitor comes to your house. Soon your puppy will learn that having guests come over is not all that exciting and their hyperactive behavior will fade away.