Understanding Overexcitement During Greetings in Dogs

Welcoming your dog home or meeting them at the park should be a joyous occasion. However, many dogs become overly excited during greetings, making these moments challenging for both the dog and their owner. Understanding why this behaviour occurs and how to manage it can create a more peaceful interaction.

Why Does Overexcitement Happen?

Overexcitement often stems from a dog's natural instincts and emotions. Dogs are social animals, and greetings can trigger a surge of joy or energy. They may jump, bark, or run in circles due to excitement, which can be overwhelming for owners and other people or pets involved. This behaviour can be linked to a lack of impulse control, insufficient training or socialisation, or even the dog’s personality.

Practical Steps to Reduce Overexcitement

Managing your dog's overexcitement during greetings requires patience and consistency. Here are some practical steps to help:

• Teach a Calm Command: Use commands such as 'sit' or 'stay' before greeting your dog. This can help them learn to control their excitement.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour with treats or praise. This reinforces the connection between calmness and positive outcomes.
• Limit Initial Interaction: When greeting, avoid immediate petting or attention until your dog is calm. This teaches them that calmness leads to interaction.
• Practice Greetings: Enlist friends or family to help with controlled greeting sessions. This helps your dog learn how to behave in various situations.
• Redirect Excess Energy: Engage your dog in a brief game or activity before greetings to help release some energy.

Expected Timelines

The time it takes for a dog to reduce overexcitement varies widely. Generally, with consistent practice and training, you may start to see improvements within a few weeks to a couple of months. Regular reinforcement and patience are key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too late to train my adult dog?

No, dogs of all ages can learn new behaviours. Consistency is essential, and patience will yield results.

What if my dog does not respond to training?

If you are not seeing progress, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist who can provide tailored support.

Can overexcitement lead to behavioural issues?

Excessive overexcitement can sometimes lead to problems, such as jumping on people or difficulty in social situations. Early intervention helps prevent these issues.