For some dogs, going for a walk is the highlight of their day — and it shows. As soon as the lead comes out, they’re already zooming around, barking at birds, lunging toward every tree, and pulling like they’ve got somewhere urgent to be. If your dog turns into a whirlwind the moment you step outside, you’re not alone.
It might feel like there’s no way to calm them down, but with a few practical strategies (and the right gear), even the most excitable dog can learn how to stay more grounded during walks. One of the best tools you can use is a heavy-duty dog harness, which offers more control and security than a standard collar, especially when your dog is full of energy and hard to handle.
Here’s how to manage overexcitement and keep your walks safer and more enjoyable.
Start Calm — Even Before the Walk
If your dog is already bouncing off the walls before you’ve left the house, you’re starting on the back foot. The key is to slow everything down before the door even opens. Don’t clip on the lead until they’re calm. Ask for a “sit” or “wait” and hold off on the walk until they’ve shown a bit of self-control.
Yes, it takes patience — but this simple habit teaches them that excitement doesn’t get rewarded. Calm behaviour does.
Use a Lead and Harness That Give You Confidence
Trying to manage an excitable dog with flimsy gear is asking for trouble. You need something that gives you both control and comfort. A properly fitted harness distributes pressure evenly and gives you better leverage without putting strain on your dog’s neck or back.
Pair it with a strong, non-retractable lead that gives you just the right amount of slack without too much freedom. If you feel secure in your grip and confident that your dog can’t break loose, you’ll naturally handle situations more calmly.
Short Walks Work Better Than Long Ones
When your dog is in overdrive, it’s easy to think, “They just need a really long walk to wear them out.” But here’s the thing: if your dog is overstimulated, a longer walk often just means more chances to spiral out of control.
Instead, go for shorter, more focused walks. Stick to quieter streets or familiar routes where your dog isn’t as likely to get overwhelmed. The goal isn’t to exhaust them — it’s to help them practise staying calm around distractions.
Give Them a Job to Do
Overexcited dogs often don’t know what to do with their energy, so they throw it in every direction. Giving them a simple “job” can channel that excitement into something productive.
This could be as easy as:
- Practising a “heel” or “let’s go” command as you walk
- Stopping for a quick “sit” at street corner
- Using treats to reward walking nicely beside you
- Asking for a “watch me” when a distraction is coming
These tasks keep their brain engaged, which helps settle their body.
Keep Your Energy Calm and Steady
Dogs mirror your energy. If you tense up when they pull or yell “no” every few steps, they’ll feed off that tension. Try staying quiet, calm, and in control — even if your dog is bouncing around. The more relaxed and consistent you are, the more you’ll signal that there’s nothing to get worked up about.
It might feel like a small detail, but your tone, body language, and pace all matter more than you think.
Know When to Take a Break
Sometimes, you just need to hit pause. If your dog is too amped up to listen, find a quiet spot and let them reset. Stop walking, keep your grip steady, and wait for them to settle. Don’t drag them along or try to force focus — just give them a moment to breathe.
When they calm down, reward it. Then either head home or continue if things feel manageable again.
Managing an excitable dog on walks isn’t about shutting down their energy — it’s about giving it the right direction. With the right mindset, tools, and a few smart routines, you can shift from chaos to calm, step by step.
And while no walk is perfect, it’s often those little moments — a loose lead, a quiet street, a brief moment of focus — that remind you it’s all worth it.
