How to Tire Out a Puppy: 7 Easy Tips
Puppies are known for being curious and rambunctious—they naturally have a lot of energy! When it’s time to wind down, your pup may still be looking to play. How can you calm down your high-energy furry friend and get them ready for snuggle time? Learn how to tire out a puppy so you can balance out their love for playing with your love for quality cuddle time.
Method #1: Take a Walk
The great outdoors is the perfect place to get your dog’s energy out. Not only will they tire out physically, but after looking around and taking in their environment, they’ll want to relax their brain, too. Go for a walk or run with your pup. The more steps they take and energy they exert, the faster they’ll be ready to relax when you get back home.
Method #2: Hit the Trail
If you’re looking to tire out your puppy and introduce them to a new environment, then it’s time to hit the trail! Not only is hiking a rewarding experience, but it’s also a great way to spend some extra-special quality time with your pup. Plus, the different types of terrain and unique scents along the trail are sure to mentally stimulate your furry friend. Be sure to search for dog-friendly spots and pack plenty of water!
Method #3: Go for a Dip
Many dog breeds love to swim—and taking a dip on a hot day is another excellent way to help tire out a puppy! If it’s your pup’s first time in the water, be sure to give them a life jacket and let them paddle around (while supervised, of course!). From the pool to the beach to the lake, your little swimmer will be tuckered out after some quality water time. Don’t forget to dry them with a warm, cozy towel before they drift off to dreamland.
Method #4: Play with Them
Playing with your dog is fun no matter their age. Interactive games or toys help disperse your puppy’s pent-up energy. Depending on your dog’s temperament and breed, games like tug-of-war, hide-and-seek, and fetch are sure to tire them out. After some interactive play, you can reward them with a treat toy for extra playtime and fun! This is the perfect rainy-day solution to tire out a puppy indoors.
Method #5: Teach a New Trick
Even though they may be young, puppies can learn tricks! When paired with treats, you can teach your young dog some new commands. Start training early, keep sessions short and simple, and use their favorite puppy treats as rewards. With each new skill they learn, they’ll tire themselves out naturally! After all, who isn’t tired after a long day of learning? Bonus tips: this is the perfect way to tire out your puppy indoors. Tiring out your little one will also make behavior training easier.
Method #6: Play Hide-and-Seek Games
Putting your dog’s search-and-find skills to the test will help tire them out. To begin training your puppy to find hidden objects, use a gate or a tether to confine them while you hide a delicious chew treat or their favorite toy. Start with a simple hiding spot and release your dog to track down what’s hidden. Continue to hide the same treat item in harder places as your puppy advances.
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Method #7: Set a Puppy Playdate
Once your dog has received all their shots, schedule a playdate or go to the dog park so they can start socializing with other furry friends. Many dog parks have separate areas for large and small dogs, so finding a play companion that matches your puppy’s size and energy level will be easy to coordinate. After some time playing with their furry friends, they won’t want to wait another minute to snooze when you get home.
Winding Down
Giving your puppy healthy ways to tire out will be an enriching addition to their daily routine. Your dog will be ready for cuddles when they try out our helpful tips and activities.
Did you recently add a new pup to the family? Learn more about puppies, how to care for them, and how you can start training:
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