Puppy Training: Helping Your Overexcited Puppy Learn to Settle

Does your puppy seem to have just two settings: asleep or absolutely bouncing off the walls?

If you're struggling with a puppy who can't seem to switch off, you're not alone. Many puppy guardians find themselves exhausted by their pup's constant energy, and it's easy to assume the answer is more exercise - more walks, more playtime, more everything to tire them out.

But here's the truth: an overtired puppy is often a hyper puppy. And calmness isn't something that just magically appears as your puppy gets older - it's a skill you need to actively teach.

The "Tired Puppy" Myth

It's one of the most common mistakes I see: guardians trying to tire their puppy out with loads of exercise, thinking that'll help them settle. The problem? It often backfires.

Puppies need a lot of sleep - around 16 to 20 hours a day. When they don't get enough rest, they become overtired, and overtired puppies struggle to settle. They get more bitey, more reactive, and more wired. Sound familiar?

Instead of endlessly trying to wear them out, we need to teach our puppies that being calm is rewarding too.

Creating a Calm Environment

Before you can teach your puppy to settle, you need to set them up for success. That means managing their environment so calmness is easier to achieve.

Here's what helps:

• Ensure they're getting enough sleep - puppies should be napping regularly throughout the day. If your puppy has been awake and active for more than an hour or two, they probably need a rest.

• Create a quiet, comfortable space - whether it's a crate, a pen, or a cosy corner, give your puppy somewhere they can switch off without distractions.

• Reduce overstimulation - constant activity, noise, or attention can keep your puppy wired. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is give them space to rest.

Teaching an "Off Switch"

Your puppy needs to learn that there's a time for play and a time for calm. This doesn't happen on its own - you have to teach it.

Here's how:

• Balance exercise and rest - yes, your puppy needs physical activity, but they also need plenty of downtime. Short bursts of play or training followed by rest is far better than hours of non-stop activity.

• Mental stimulation is key - puzzle toys, sniff games, and short training sessions tire your puppy's brain, which is just as important (if not more so) than physical exercise. A mentally tired puppy is much more likely to settle.

• Don't reward overexcitement - if your puppy is bouncing around demanding attention, wait for them to calm down before you give it. You're teaching them that calmness gets them what they want, not chaos.

Capturing Calmness

One of the most powerful things you can do is reward your puppy when they're naturally calm. Most guardians only pay attention to their puppy when they're doing something - playing, training, or (let's be honest) being a nuisance. But when your puppy is lying quietly? That's when the magic happens.

Here's what to do:

• Watch for calm moments - when your puppy naturally settles down (maybe during TV time, or after a play session), quietly reward them. Drop a treat between their paws or calmly praise them.

• Keep it low-key - don't get them excited again! The reward should be gentle and calm so they stay in that relaxed state.

• Do it often - the more you reward calmness, the more your puppy will offer it. You're showing them that being calm pays off.

This is such a simple technique, but it's incredibly effective. You're teaching your puppy that settling down is a good choice, and over time, they'll start doing it more and more.

Settling on a Mat

Another brilliant tool for teaching calmness is mat training. This involves teaching your puppy that when they go to their mat, it's time to relax. It gives them a clear signal and a designated place to settle, which can be really helpful in a busy household.

Mat training is something we cover in my Puppy Foundations Package, along with all the other essential skills your puppy needs to grow into a calm, confident dog.

The Big Picture

If your puppy seems like they never stop, remember: calmness is a skill, not a personality trait. It takes time, consistency, and patience to teach, but it's absolutely achievable.

By managing their environment, balancing exercise with rest, and actively rewarding calm behaviour, you'll help your puppy learn that there's more to life than chaos. And trust me, both of you will be much happier for it.

Need help teaching your puppy to settle? My Puppy Foundations Package gives you the tools and guidance to build calmness, confidence, and all the essential skills your puppy needs. Book a free consultation and let's get started.