Dog rolling in grass

How to Train a Mixed Breed Dog with High Energy

Tips for keeping your energetic pup mentally and physically engaged without losing your mind (or your shoes).

If you’ve got a mixed breed dog that seems to run on rocket fuel, you’re not alone. Whether your pup inherited traits from a herder, hunter, or all-around go-getter, high energy is common in mixed breeds—and it can be both a blessing and a challenge. These dogs are smart, motivated, and full of personality. But without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can turn your home into a chaos zone.

The good news? With the right routine and a little strategy, you can channel that energy into something positive. This post will help you train and live happily with your high-energy mutt, no matter how zoomy they are.

Understand Where the Energy Comes From

One of the fun (and unpredictable) things about mixed breed dogs is their combination of traits. A dog with Border Collie, Jack Russell, or Husky in their background is almost guaranteed to have a high drive, even if they’re mixed with something more mellow. Even if you don’t know your dog’s full DNA story, their behavior gives clues.

Some dogs need physical outlets, while others crave problem-solving and engagement. Many need both. When your dog is constantly pacing, chewing, or barking at shadows, it’s often a sign that their energy tank is overflowing—and they don’t know where to put it.

Daily Exercise: The Non-Negotiable

For high-energy dogs, a walk around the block won’t cut it. These dogs need daily exercise that gets their heart pumping and their legs moving. A tired dog really is a good dog, but it has to be the right kind of tired.

Ideas to try:

  • Fetch or tug-of-war in the backyard or hallway
  • Flirt pole sessions (a great workout with minimal space)
  • Hiking or running for dogs who can handle longer outings
  • Dog park playdates for well-socialized dogs
  • Swimming, if your pup enjoys the water

Most high-energy dogs need at least 60–90 minutes of physical activity a day, broken up if needed. Puppies and young adults might need even more.

Mental Stimulation is Just as Important

If physical exercise is like taking the edge off, mental work is what really wears them out. Dogs love to use their brains, and high-energy dogs need that engagement to feel satisfied.

Try these mental enrichment options:

  • Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing balls
  • Snuffle mats or scatter feeding
  • Basic obedience refreshers (even sit, stay, down can be tiring if practiced with focus)
  • “Find it” games—hide treats or toys around the house
  • DIY scent games using a few boxes and some kibble

Rotating your dog’s toys or introducing new challenges regularly keeps things fresh and prevents boredom.

Training as an Energy Outlet

Training is one of the best ways to burn off mental energy—and it has the bonus of improving your dog’s behavior.

Here’s how to make it work:

  • Keep sessions short and fun (5–10 minutes is great)
  • Focus on impulse control skills like “wait,” “leave it,” and “settle”
  • Use positive reinforcement—treats, toys, or praise
  • Practice tricks or new skills regularly (even goofy ones like spin or high-five)

Think of training as both a workout and a bonding session. You’re teaching your dog to listen and giving their brain something to do.

Structure and Routine Keep Everyone Sane

When you’ve got a pup who seems to bounce off the walls, structure can be your best friend. Dogs thrive on predictable routines—it helps them feel secure and reduces hyperactivity from overstimulation.

Tips for creating a routine:

  • Set consistent times for meals, walks, play, and rest
  • Include rest time or crate time to help them learn how to relax
  • Avoid overstimulation by keeping play balanced with quiet time

Don’t be afraid to enforce rest. Just like toddlers, high-energy dogs can get overtired and cranky when they’re not getting enough downtime.

Real-Life Tips from Mixed Breed Owners

Sometimes the best advice comes from fellow dog people:

“With my own Aussie mix, I learned that 15 minutes of trick training is worth an hour at the park.”

“Our Lab mix only calms down after a good tug-of-war game—then she’s ready to nap.”

“Mental work like scent games wears my dog out faster than a walk ever does.”

What works for one dog might not work for another, but once you find your pup’s favorite activity, it’s a game-changer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to fall into traps that make things harder.

Watch out for:

  • Skipping mental stimulation—physical activity alone isn’t enough
  • Not teaching “off switches”—dogs need to learn to relax
  • Underestimating boredom—a “bad” behavior is often just a cry for more enrichment
  • Assuming high energy = untrainable—it’s the opposite! These dogs want to work

Conclusion: You’ve Got This

Raising and training a high-energy mixed breed dog can be a handful—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. These dogs are often the most loyal, loving, and fun companions you’ll ever meet. With the right balance of exercise, mental work, and structure, you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive together.

Just remember: your goal isn’t to tire your dog out completely (though that’s nice too)—it’s to help them feel calm, fulfilled, and understood. And yes, to keep your shoes out of their mouths.

FAQ

What’s the best activity for a high-energy mixed breed dog?
It depends on their preferences and physical ability, but agility, hiking, flirt poles, and trick training are all great options.

Can you train a hyper dog to calm down?
Yes! With consistent routines, impulse control training, and enough stimulation, even the busiest dogs can learn to relax.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough exercise?
If they’re still bouncing off the walls after a long walk, try adding mental games or increasing the intensity of their physical play.

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