How to Train a Dog With Canine ADHD

Introduction

As a full-time dog trainer, I get a lot of calls from dog owners who think their dogs may have canine ADHD. In all my years of training dogs, I really don't think dogs get ADHD. What I do think is that some dogs are very active and have a hard time learning obedience. In this article I will outline three steps which will benefit hyperactive dogs that are extremely difficult to train. You will get results if you follow these steps.

By: Eric Letendre

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Instructions

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Tips & Warnings:

Give plenty of exercise.
Check the food you're feeding.
Keep training sessions short.

Step1

Dogs that have a difficult time learning are almost always very active. Exercise is the only antidote for an active dog that has an unlimited amount of energy. One of the best ways to exercise an active dog is dog daycare. A good dog daycare allows your dog to play with other dog-friendly dogs all day. If you don't have a dog daycare in your area, check with friends and family members who have dogs and see if your dog can play with theirs. Hiking, swimming, walking, tug games, retrieving games, agility and flyball are all great activities that you can do with your dog.

Step2

In addition to physical exercise your dog also needs a mental workout. If your dog is mentally bored it can lead to big problems. By doing some training, teaching tricks and using toys like the Buster Cube and Kong toy you can give your dog a mental workout.

Step3

Check the ingredients in the food that you feed your dog. Not all dog foods are created equal; some dog food is very good and some is junk. The lower quality dog foods have preservatives, dyes, chemicals and are made with low-grade meats and vegetables. Be sure to check the label to see what the food is made of.

Step4

Training sessions should be kept short and fun. When I'm working with a dog that is having a difficult time learning obedience I use a lot of praise, treats and toys. I do a lot to keep the dog's attention and focus on me. I also always end the session with the dog wanting to do more.