5 ways you might be over-exciting your dog

1. Instant Rewards - Treats and toys if given to a dog when they are hyper teaches the dog being hyperactive is what causes them to receive the reward. Instead of waiting until they at least in a sit but ideally sitting with their legs to onside before rewards can break this pattern.

2. Allowing guarding behaviours - When dogs invite themselves into our personal space and sit or lean on us in their minds they are in a protective mode. Instinctually being too close to us triggers protective behaviours toward other dogs or people (one reason why people think dogs become jealous) In reality they view the human as a resource and will protect them by acting assertively towards perceived threats.

3. Patting your dog when it is exciting - many think stroking will calm the dog down although when they are in this mode physical affection is rewarding, and likely becoming a pattern

4. Asking them if they want to go for aahh-WALK!? Without extra help, dogs automatically become excited before heading out for a stroll. Begining to put on runners, walking towards where their lead is kept, the sound of the lead are Indicators that one of their most favourite things in the world is about to happen. Repeated over a few years the triggers may create a hyperactive dog, and inhibit a dog's impulse control resulting in lead-reactivity and socialisation issues.

5. Excited/Anxious owners - It does not make sense to expect calm behaviour from a dog if the owner cannot consistently achieve relaxation themselves. Rushing around the house or being frantic with your movements will trigger their excitement levels. Practice reducing your excitement, stress and it will be passed on to your dog.