Home

Back

Dogs are born with different levels of energy. If you have a dog that does not match your energy level it can be extremely frustrating and difficult to live with so let's explore this topic.

Dogs with low to moderate energy levels are the easiest to care for since they do not require extensive exercise and whatever you give them will fulfill their needs. Typically, these dogs need a daily walk and will have a burst of energy maybe once or twice a day. The rest of the time they spend lounging around and dozing off. Dogs with low to moderate energy are real easy to live with, especially if you have to spend large amounts of time sitting around and you want the dog to keep you company without driving your crazy.

Dogs with high energy are harder to care for because you need to give them lots of exercise. Some dogs actually can't get enough exercise and even if you spend the whole day giving them a workout they need more. These dogs go nuts if not given enough exercise, and can have all kinds of behavior problems including hyperactivity, destructiveness and neuroses. They can turn your life into a nightmare if you do not make an attempt to physically wear them out on a daily basis.

The biggest problem I see are dog/owner mismatches over energy level. Most people who are having a problem with their dog are having the problem because of this factor. If you are low to medium energy person and/or you don't spend alot of time exercising your dog everyday a high energy dog will constantly be causing you problems. A high energy dog will never be calm no matter how much training you do.

On the other hand, if you spend alot of time training/exercising your dog and/or you participate in dog dog sports you need a high energy dog with tons of play drive or you will be very disappointed. You cannot turn a lower energy dog into a higher energy dog and training a lower energy dog to competition levels is an exercise in frustration

Home | Back to Top