Ways to Help Your Dog Relax When Overly Excited

Stay Calm to Calm Your Dog

Your dog’s excitement is contagious—especially if you react with urgency. The key is to stay quiet and composed. Even if your mind is racing, speak in a low, calm voice and move slowly. Your calmness directly influences your dog’s state. Avoid yelling or showing frustration, as this can escalate the situation. Instead, act as if you’re in complete control—your dog will pick up on that energy.

Use Clear Cues to Regain Control

When your dog is spinning with excitement, try the "sit" command with a clear visual signal. A dog’s posture affects their emotions—sitting helps settle their nervous system. If they pop up, ask again calmly. You can repeat this several times. Use a long, soothing "Go-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-d" to reinforce calm moments without revving them up. Avoid praise words that excite them, like "Yes-Yes-Yes!"

Give Your Dog Something to Hold

If your dog is barking, jumping, or running wild, giving them a toy to carry can help. It’s hard to bark and hold something at the same time. A favorite chew or fetch toy provides an alternative behavior and can reduce noise and chaos. This doesn’t teach them not to bark, but it gives you a moment to regain control. Let them pick up the toy themselves if possible—this increases engagement and calm.

Practice Relaxation Exercises with a Mat

Use a special mat or bed as a cue for relaxation. Place it in different locations so your dog learns to associate it with calm behavior. Practice relaxation protocols on the mat, moving slowly through exercises that build focus and self-control. This helps your dog feel secure and gives them a predictable space to relax—even in stressful situations like vet visits or dog parks. You can even do these exercises while your dog is in a crate.

Redirect with Unexpected Cues or Tasks

If your dog isn’t responding to normal cues, surprise them with an out-of-context phrase like "Wanna go on a walk?" or "Dinner Time!" even if you’re not actually doing those things. This can break their emotional spiral. You can also ask them to fetch or search for an object—this channels their energy into a useful, focused task. These techniques work best if your dog already knows how to search or retrieve.