1. Home
  2. Dog
  3. Training & Behavior

How To Calm Down A Puppy Who Has Way Too Much Energy

Priscilla Blossom
By Priscilla Blossom
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025
An excited puppy running in grass

Photo by iStock.com/bschuitdesign

Jump to section

  • 5 Ways to Calm a Puppy
  • Puppy Energy Vs. Hyperactivity: What's Normal?
  • High-Energy Dog Breeds
  • Does My Puppy Have Separation Anxiety?

So, your new puppy is home and they’re adorable—when they’re sleeping. Awake, they’re high-energy and in constant motion. Now you are asking yourself, “What was I thinking?” and “When will they ever calm down!?”

Here’s the good news: Your puppy will eventually calm down (we swear!), and there are a few tactics you can use to help them get zen sooner than later.

5 Ways to Calm a Puppy


Follow these tips to calm your life once you are smitten with your new puppy:

1. Practice Crate Training

Teach your pup to love “their room,” aka their dog crate— a place for naptime, downtime, time-outs and those times when you need to get something done without them under your feet.

Dog crates are great places for puppies to learn to calm themselves, to feel safe and—sometimes, when we get lucky—to be still long enough to fall asleep. Remember, your puppy needs regular naps and good sleep to stay healthy. Letting them run wild around your home 24-7 will not produce the calm behavior you want. 

Recommended Products

Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate, Med/Large
Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate, Med/Large
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
6.4KReviews
$49.99Chewy Price
Frisco Heavy Duty Enhanced Lock Double Door Fold & Carry Wire Dog Crate & Mat Kit, Teal, X-Large
Frisco Heavy Duty Enhanced Lock Double Door Fold & Carry Wire Dog Crate & Mat Kit, Teal, X-Large
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
645Reviews
$149.00Chewy Price
Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Single Door Dog Crate, Large
Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Single Door Dog Crate, Large
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
281Reviews
$449.00Chewy Price
A man running with a puppy on a leash

iStock.com/Sviatlana Barchan

2. Cross-Train Your Pup

When it comes to your new puppy, it’s better to work a little bit on lots of different skills rather than focusing solely on any one thing. Explore four areas of exercise: physical, mental, sniffing and chewing.

  • Physical: The best physical exercise for puppies includes short spurts of running and play in safe places like fenced-in yards. Embrace the zoomies! But remember that puppies’ bone structures are not complete for up to a year or more.

Walking for more than around a half-mile, jogging with humans or jumping frequently are not good activities for a new puppy. Follow your puppy’s lead, and don’t push them to continue exercising if they look tired.

  • Mental: Provide mental stimulation through puppy training classes and at-home daily practice. You can also provide them mental challenges through treat-dispensing dog toys.
  • Sniffing: Dogs love exercising their sense of smell—and it’s a great way to tire them out and help them calm down, too. Offer unique items to smell and play with, such as an orange with a scored peel (just don’t let them eat the peel) or a small pumpkin with some skin removed.

Hide dog treats in cardboard boxes for them to find. Scatter a kibble meal onto the carpet or in untreated grass for foraging instead of using a bowl.

  • Chewing: We all know puppies love to chew. Whether exploring the world through their mouths or relieving the irritation of teething at around 4 months of age, a new puppy needs safe items to chew.

What you choose depends on how hard your puppy chews and whether or not they try to consume what they chew. Durable rubber chew toys are good, but should be inspected often for wear. Some dogs enjoy chewing on whole fresh carrots, dried sweet potatoes or other organic items. Appropriate chewing outlets tire out your puppy and save your valued possessions!

Recommended Products

Frisco Latex Squeaky Puppy Toy, Blue, X-Small/Small
Frisco Latex Squeaky Puppy Toy, Blue, X-Small/Small
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
1.3KReviews
$4.99Chewy Price
KONG Puppy Chew Dog Toy, Blue, Small
KONG Puppy Chew Dog Toy, Blue, Small
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
3.7KReviews
$7.49Chewy Price
Nylabone Puppy Chew Variety Toy & Treat Triple Pack Pink, Small
Nylabone Puppy Chew Variety Toy & Treat Triple Pack Pink, Small
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
1.3KReviews
$8.18Chewy Price
A woman feeding a treat to a puppy

iStock.com/Nazar Rybak

3. Catch and Reward Good Impulses

New pet parents often think they need to punish their puppy when they catch them making a mistake. But nothing could be further from the truth! Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, in which you try to catch your puppy doing something you like and reward the heck out of that!
 
You can use treats or “life rewards” to reinforce good behaviors. Keep their favorite toy out of reach until they sit or respond to your cue to “come.” Then present the chew toy and have fun.

Recommended Products

Wellness Soft Puppy Bites Lamb & Salmon Grain-Free Dog Treats, 3-oz pouch
Wellness Soft Puppy Bites Lamb & Salmon Grain-Free Dog Treats, 3-oz pouch
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
8.2KReviews
$4.99Chewy Price
Puppy Chow Healthy Start Salmon Flavor Training Dog Treats, 24-oz pouch
Puppy Chow Healthy Start Salmon Flavor Training Dog Treats, 24-oz pouch
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
1.3KReviews
$10.99Chewy Price
Zuke's Puppy Naturals Pork & Chickpea Recipe Grain-Free Dog Treats, 5-oz bag
Out of Stock
Zuke's Puppy Naturals Pork & Chickpea Recipe Grain-Free Dog Treats, 5-oz bag
Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars
4.1
108Reviews
$7.45Chewy Price
View Item Details
A puppy inside a playpen

iStock.com/JulPo

4. Manage Your Environment

If you remove your puppy’s access to things they shouldn’t have, they are left with a much better chance of “being good.” Don’t want your pup to use your shoes as chew toys? Put them behind a closed closet door.

You can manage their energy levels in a similar way. For example, if your puppy pulls and darts on leash, play in a safe area such as a dog park or your backyard before your walk. Throw a ball, play tug or get them to chase you around a bit. Once they have run off their “zoomies,” they may be able to calm down and walk better with a dog leash on.

Recommended Products

Frisco Colorful Fetch Squeaky Tennis Ball Dog Toy, Medium, 3 count
Frisco Colorful Fetch Squeaky Tennis Ball Dog Toy, Medium, 3 count
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
2.1KReviews
$5.99Chewy Price
Frisco Fetch Squeaky TPR Ball Dog Toy, Orange, Large, 1 count
Frisco Fetch Squeaky TPR Ball Dog Toy, Orange, Large, 1 count
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
2.1KReviews
$5.99Chewy Price
Frisco Football TPR Squeaky Dog Toy, Blue, Medium
Frisco Football TPR Squeaky Dog Toy, Blue, Medium
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
560Reviews
$7.99Chewy Price
A man rewarding his puppy with a treat while on a walk

iStock.com/CBCK-Christine

5. Train Now—and Repeat Often

All skills require practice. Repetition is essential. Remember: From the moment you bring puppy home, they are learning. It’s up to you to make sure they learn the lessons you want. Set aside time each day for training, and enroll in a reputable puppy class and practice skills that utilize positive reinforcement in short sessions. Channeling your puppy’s energy into skills you want via dog training will turn “over active” into interactive!

Puppy Energy Vs. Hyperactivity: What's Normal?


Puppies are a lot of work. At times, their excess energy seems inexhaustible. Everything is new to them, and they are more coordinated than human babies at this age. They not only have the curiosity to investigate, but the ability as well!

As puppy parents, we sometimes exaggerate the extent of the new puppy’s excited behavior because we. Are. Exhausted. And for some puppies, simply getting enough exercise and maybe a bit of puppy training is enough to eventually get them to calm down. However, there is a difference between typical puppy activity and true “hyperactivity.”

Canine hyperactivity, a condition called hyperkinesis, exists in an extremely small percentage of dogs. Clinically diagnosed hyperactive dogs have the following symptoms:

  • They don’t learn well
  • They cannot maintain a “sit” or “down” even with practice
  • They don’t settle overnight
  • They are overly excited by new things

Additionally, hyperactive dogs may:

  • Have elevated heart and respiratory rates
  • Salivate and vocalize excessively
  • Have low body condition score

Of course, only your veterinarian can diagnose this condition. If you see clear symptoms of hyperactivity, make notes and discuss with your veterinarian.

Statistically, it is much more likely your puppy is not hyperactive, but needs appropriate exercise, mental stimulation, and dog training. Reset your expectations, and learn the tricks good trainers can offer.

High-Energy Dog Breeds


While most puppies have lots of energy, some breeds need more playtime than others. High-energy breeds are ones who were generally bred to be herding dogs, hunting and sporting dogs, as well as the terrier class.

Here are a few examples of high-energy dog breeds:

  • Border Collie
  • Siberian Husky
  • German Shorthaired Pointer
  • Belgian Malinois
  • Jack Russell Terrier
  • Vizsla
  • Dutch Shepherd
  • Doodles (any variety)
  • Dalmatian
  • Weimaraner

Does My Puppy Have Separation Anxiety?


Separation anxiety is a condition in which a dog responds to the absence of their pet parents with anxious episodes, often resulting in undesirable behaviors like:

  • Chewing on inappropriate items
  • Excessive barking
  • Whining
  • Marking the house

These behavior problems can occur in any dog—it is not breed specific or related to having a hyperactive dog. Luckily, training sessions with an animal behaviorist can help resolve these issues, allowing your pup to be the best dog they can be. Don’t wait for unwanted behaviors to pop up. Be a proactive pet parent and seek out a professional, licensed animal behaviorist for puppy training as soon as you bring your pup home.

Attributions


Priscilla Blossom

Priscilla Blossom

Related articles
  • My Senior Dog Sleeps All Day—Is This Normal?
    My Senior Dog Sleeps All Day—Is This Normal?

  • Why Do Dogs Bark?
    Why Do Dogs Bark?

  • How To Keep Your Dog Off the Couch
    How To Keep Your Dog Off the Couch

  • How To Train a German Shepherd Puppy
    How To Train a German Shepherd Puppy
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      Dog DealsSummer ShopPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      $30 eGift card with $100 order of pet faves like Solid Gold. Code: HAVEFUN. Exclusions apply.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Help support their urinary health with Royal Canin Urinary nutrition. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals