How to stop my high energy dog from biting, lunging, and acting crazy?

Question

My dog will start by running in circles, at home, and if I go closer he will bite me, leaving marks. I can just want to pet his head, and he will bite me. When I go on walks he sometimes starts to bite the leash, and if I stop him then he starts biting me and goes crazy. He tries to even run away, but due to the leash he can't. As well as, when this behavior happens at home, he will lunge at me and snap. His eyes even become huge, like he possessed. This lasts for a bit, then hes calm again.HELP. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 73 lbs

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH · Accepted Answer

I certainly understand and sympathize with your situation. I see that Max is only 1 year old. I added a puppy to my house 2 years ago and was shocked at how much energy he had. From what you have told me in your question, it sounds like Max is having episodes of not being able to control his energy and is playing inappropriately. My dog also does this. The best solution I have is to find ways to keep Max busy and tired. One thing that people think of first is treats that keep them busy for a longer period of time. This does seem to help. You can use long lasting treats like a Kong filled with peanut butter, yogurt, treats, etc and frozen so it takes longer for him to eat. My dog also really like Bully Sticks which I also freeze to make them last a little longer. Keep him mentally and physically busy during meal times. I love using a feeding balls like a Buster Cube or Tricky Treat ball to feed meals in. It keeps him busy for at least 5-10 minutes at each meal and requires him to work. And speaking of working. I have found that my dog is the most tired after we have done a good round of training. Even if you have done a basic obedience class, I would consider trying an advanced class, a nose work class, a tricks class, etc. And if taking a class isn't an option right now, work on training at home. When he goes on walks, make him sit at each corner before he crosses the street. It sounds simple, but additional mental stimulation can go a long way. Playing with other dogs is a great outlet for energy. If you haven't tried it yet, look into your local dog park or doggy daycare center. Sending my youngest dog to daycare once a week has made a huge difference. There are a number of interactive dog games and toys available now. Outward Hound makes a number of toys that your dog has to figure out a puzzle of some type before they get a treats. Here are some ideas for those. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-toys/interactive-dog-toys/dog-puzzle-toys-and-games I have not tried the Clever Pet yet, but it is an electronic interactive toy that am intrigued about it. clever.pet So, I think the key is to vary his activities daily and include a wide range of physical and mental stimulation. Be sure to be creative to tire him out on a regular basis and help everyone keep their sanity. For right now, when he is having these crazy episodes, try to leave him alone or distract him with an appropriate outlet. When my dog has them, I can distract him with a ball to chase. If you are trying these suggestions and his behavior is not getting better, I would ask your vet for a recommendation for a good trainer or behaviorist. Please let me know if that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

How to stop my high energy dog from biting, lunging, and acting crazy?

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