Keeping Up With Your High-Energy Dog: The Best Exercises and Activities to Keep Them Happy and Balanced

If you're the proud owner of a high-energy dog, you know that a simple stroll around the block isn't enough. These dogs require both - physical and mental stimulation; without it, they may develop destructive or hyperactive behaviours. The key to having a well-behaved and satisfied companion is providing multiple outlets for their excessive energy.

Here’s how you can help your energetic pup burn off that excess energy and stay mentally sharp:

### Structured Walks with Purpose

Turn everyday walks into training opportunities by incorporating obedience commands like “sit,” “heel,” and “wait.” Vary your pace to keep your dog focused.

**Benefit:** This builds impulse control, reinforces good manners, and mentally engages your dog while satisfying their need for movement.

### Walking Uphill or on Trails

Adding hills or uneven terrain to your walks naturally increases the difficulty. Trails also provide plenty of new smells and sights to keep your dog’s senses engaged.

**Benefit:** Uphill walking strengthens muscles, improves endurance, and sharpens the brain through environmental enrichment.

### Dog Backpack with Weights

For physically mature dogs, using a well-fitted backpack with light weights or water bottles gives them a "job" during walks.

**Benefit:** Carrying weight burns more energy, builds strength, and satisfies working breeds' instinct to have a purpose. (Always consult with your vet before starting this.)

### Running Stairs

A few sprints up and down the stairs will quickly tire even the most energetic dog. You can toss a toy or throw treats to make running stairs more fun.

**Benefit:** This boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens leg muscles, and drains energy rapidly. (Avoid this exercise with puppies or dogs prone to joint issues.)

### Tug-of-War

This classic game is more than just fun; it teaches impulse control, strengthens the bond and releases physical energy when played with clear rules.

**Benefit:** Encourages self-control, and provides a healthy physical outlet for dog's nergy.

### Fetch and Retrieval Games

Throwing a ball, frisbee, or favourite toy allows your dog to engage using their chasing and retrieving instincts in a controlled way.

**Benefit:** Builds focus, provides intense exercise, and positively taps into their natural predatory behaviours.

### Off-Leash Running

If you have access to a safe, enclosed space, let your dog run free and stretch out at full speed.

**Benefit:** Fulfills their need for full-body movement, improving stamina, strength, and happiness.

### Breed-Specific Activities

Engaging in activities that align with your dog’s instincts—such as herding, retrieving, or scent work—provides incredible mental satisfaction.

**Benefit:** Offers targeted engagement tailored to your dog's instincts, reducing frustration and behavioural issues.

### Flirt Pole

This giant cat toy for dogs allows them to chase and pounce safely.

**Benefit:** Drains energy quickly, improves coordination, and strengthens muscles with minimal effort on your part.

### Agility or Urban Agility

Set up obstacles like jumps, tunnels, or weave poles in your yard, or home. You can also improvise using city structures such as benches and curbs.

**Benefit:** Builds confidence, enhances physical conditioning, and strengthens communication between you and your dog.

### Enrichment Games and Puzzle Toys

Using snuffle mats, frozen Kongs, treat-dispensing toys, and scent games challenges your dog’s brain.

**Benefit:** Provides mental exercise that tires them out nearly as much as physical play and reduces boredom-related behaviours.

### Training Sessions: Obedience and Beyond

Short, focused training sessions that teach obedience.

**Benefit:** Enhances focus, builds confidence, strengthens your relationship, and provides mental stimulation that leads to a calmer dog.

### Dog Sports

Activities like flyball, dock diving, canicross, or scent trials are perfect for athletic dogs that crave structured excitement.

**Benefit:** Provides socialization, sharpens natural talents, builds fitness, and offers a healthy competitive outlet.

### Playdates with Other Dogs

A good romp with a compatible playmate can leave even the most energetic dog happily exhausted.

**Benefit:** Boosts social skills, provides cardiovascular exercise, and naturally burns mental and physical energy.

### Swimming

Swimming is fantastic for high-energy dogs, especially those with joint concerns.

**Benefit:** Low-impact exercise that builds endurance, cools them down in hot weather, and provides a full-body workout.

### Chasing Bubbles

A simple yet entertaining activity—blow bubbles and let your dog leap and pop them!

**Benefit:** Encourages playfulness, quick movements, and agility without requiring much space.

### Treat Scavenger Hunt

Hide treats around your house or yard and encourage your dog to “find it.”

**Benefit:** Sharpens their natural hunting instincts, boosts focus, and provides excellent mental stimulation.

### Play with Laser Toys

Like bubbles, laser pointers create fun, fast-paced chases.

**Benefit:** Quick bursts of exercise and mental alertness.

TIP: Remember to end with a tangible toy or treat so your dog doesn't get frustrated.

### Ping Pong Recall (Two-Person Recall Game)

Stand at a distance from another person and practice recalling your dog back and forth between you, encouraging them to respond quickly and effectively.

Using these activities, you can ensure your energetic dog remains healthy, happy, and well-behaved.

Exercise for high energy dogs