Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 3 days old
I have a 7 month old goldendoodle and when I try and walk him off leash in the woods he's usually good at coming back when called, unless there are other dogs, then he gets hyper and super playful and becomes uncontrollable. I want to be able to walk him off leash as he has a lot of energy. Will it improve with training or are there some breeds that just don't outgrow this?
1 Answer
Published on September 25th, 2017
I would give it some time and training. Ziggy is a young dog and his exuberance on walks around other dogs is to be expected. It would help for you to start some "learn to earn" training. This means before Ziggy gets anything desirable (like a treat, attention for play, going outside, getting a meal) he has to sit and focus on you for a second. To facilitate this you start in the home where there are minimal distractions. Use a treat to get Ziggy to sit and look at you while saying "focus" or whatever command you want. Continue to do this before Ziggy gets anything fun or desirable. Eventually you can practice this behavior on walks so Ziggy is less triggered by other distractions. As always with training time and consistency are key. Everyone in the household should practice this with Ziggy. It may take a few months for him to get it down pat. You can always contact a credible trainer to help you out if needed. I hope this helps and good luck to you and Ziggy! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
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