What to do if the dog is hyperactive

Just as with humans, there are character and behavioral differences in dogs that identify their temperament from an early age.

Considering that the Labrador is a dog that needs a lot of movement to unload all of its physicality, some individuals, show marked exuberance from the earliest months of age, which makes the diagnosis of "hyperactivity" by owners almost taken for granted.

But how to be sure that one's dog is really hyperactive?

Types of hyperactivity in dogs

Hyperactivity in dogs can be considered, where it is established, to be a true behavioral disorder that needs appropriate attitudes and appropriate therapy to minimize its consequences.

There are 2 different types of canine hyperactivity, the physiological and the pathological.

Physiological hyperactivity in dogs very often originates from compulsive repetition of a certain attitude or, in some cases, even from traumatic events experienced by the dog as possible abandonment.

Canine hyperactivity of the pathological type (better known as hyperkinesis), on the other hand, has a close correlation with an alteration in dopamine levels present in the dog's brain.

As can be easily guessed, in this case it is advisable to take the hyperactive dog to a specialized veterinarian who will be able to recommend the most appropriate therapy for the case.

Hyperactivity in the dog: symptomatology

Labrador owners often go into alarm if they notice signs of hyperactivity in a puppy; in fact, the real concern should be triggered if the dog shows signs of excessive exuberance in adulthood.

But how can we tell if we are defending a hyperactive dog?

The best way to proceed with an initial diagnosis is to observe whether the following symptoms are present:

• excessive voracity
• Excessive exuberance in demonstrations of affection toward human beings
• Aggressive behavior as a result of particular stimuli
• poor leash propensity

Diagnosis of hyperactivity in the dog

Of course, a diagnosis of canine hyperactivity cannot be based on simple observation by the owner, but must be supported by appropriate medical analysis.

There are specific tests to be done, such as one related to methylphenidate, which, in many cases, proves effective in detecting the problem.

Hyperactive dog: possible treatments

The golden rule for resolving a hyperactivity situation in the dog is to avoid unnecessary and repeated stress to the animal.

In more delicate cases, it is also possible to resort to the use of homeopathic remedies or, alternatively, to the advice of a specialized behaviorist (other than a dog behaviorist) who will be able to indicate to the dog owner the useful measures to be put into practice to normalize the situation.

Of course, it is advisable to avoid as much as possible "giving in" to the insistence of the dog, which, being hyperactive, will continuously and obsessively try to get its owner's attention in order to get what it wants.

Although it may seem strange a poor diet can affect stress and hyperactivity, as you do not satisfy that natural need of the dog to feed itself with food that suits its nature as an "opportunistic" carnivore.

Therefore, it is preferable not to indulge the dog in its tantrums and to follow specific food rules and outing times so that the animal's problem is firmly managed.

The watchwords, therefore, in the re-education of a hyperactive dog are firmness, patience and serenity. It may sound strange but it is often we ourselves who give the wrong messages to the dog and confuse him.

Source : www.myfrenchies.it