Dog gets too excited for walks

[acer925]

My dog gets over excited when he knows he's going on a walk and I think it contributes to him not listening as well as he should/can on walks. He doesn't jump on me or anything but just gets all worked up. I think some would suggest getting ready for walks but then not actually going to desensitize him to the before process? I know my wife would have a problem with this since she thinks he's fine, I'd just like to know if I'd be right in doing this. Thanks

 

[Doberluv]

Yes, you can do the things you do before going on a walk, like put your shoes on, get the leash etc....then go and do something else for a bit, like do the dishes or do something on the computer. Don't do those same things every time. Mix it up. Don't say anything to the dog. Just act nonchalant. When the dog is more calm, then promptly go out the door with him. Don't take him out if and when he's jumping around and acting too excitable. Wait for him to calm and then reward him by going out on the walk. I'd wait for more calmness, but not expect perfection at first. Build on it as you go. Ask for a little better each time. Reward for baby steps in the right direction.

 

[acer925]

Yes, you can do the things you do before going on a walk, like put your shoes on, get the leash etc....then go and do something else for a bit, like do the dishes or do something on the computer. Don't do those same things every time. Mix it up. Don't say anything to the dog. Just act nonchalant. When the dog is more calm, then promptly go out the door with him. Don't take him out if and when he's jumping around and acting too excitable. Wait for him to calm and then reward him by going out on the walk. I'd wait for more calmness, but not expect perfection at first. Build on it as you go. Ask for a little better each time. Reward for baby steps in the right direction.

He's tricky because he will lay down and wait for me to get ready, but he's still not calm on the inside. As soon as I put his leash on him and he stands up, he gets full of energy again..(shaking his head, scratching his neck, nubbing inanimate objects). I wouldn't say it's "bad", but I'd like him to just be calm.