How to Calm a Hyper German Shepard

As much as you love your German Shepherd, you may not be particularly fond of the excessive and occasionally destructive energy it unleashes at inappropriate times. Though different breeds exhibit different levels of hyperactivity, all dogs need regular exercise, and game-play that requires a certain level of concentration and focus. Keep in mind that your German shepherd will most likely not respond immediately to attempts to calm it down. "Calm" is a learned behavior that'll require daily interaction and ongoing training.

Exhaust your German shepherd's energy in a constructive way by engaging it in regular exercise. Take it for walks or jogs daily. Let it run loose on your property if you have a fenced-in backyard, and play "fetch" with it regularly.

Speak or issue commands in a slow, low-pitched, authoritative and controlled manner. Avoid verbally reprimanding your dog with anxious, high-pitched and rapidly spoken commands; this will only excite it further.

Use scents to calm your German shepherd by placing aromatherapy diffusers throughout your home. Try essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, sweet orange, vanilla and ylang ylang. Experiment with multiple essential oil scents to determine which ones are effective in soothing your dog.

Place your German shepherd's food inside a dog toy designed to make the dog work to gain access to the food. Focus its concentration when it becomes too hyper by using these feeding-oriented toys, which also serve to mentally challenge your dog.

Engage in at least ten minutes of training and obedience activities daily. Forge a command-and-response relationship with your dog to better control inappropriately aggressive behavior.