Dogs / Behaviour

More Exercise ≠ Always Better Behaviour

It is a common belief that a "tired dog is a good dog" — and while adequate physical exercise is important, the relationship between exercise and behaviour is not linear.

Detailed close-up portrait of a mixed-breed dog with a warm and attentive expression.
Photo by Helena Lopes on Pexels

It is a common belief that a "tired dog is a good dog" — and while adequate physical exercise is important, the relationship between exercise and behaviour is not linear.

What can happen with over-exercise:

  • Baseline arousal level rises
  • Tolerance for downtime drops
  • The dog becomes the canine equivalent of an overstimulated toddler — wired, unable to settle, and more reactive

What most dogs actually need more of:

  • Puzzle feeders
  • Scent work
  • Training sessions
  • Novel environments to explore at a calm pace

A balanced approach that includes moderate physical exercise and regular cognitive enrichment produces far better behavioural outcomes than simply "running the energy out."


Article content © Ravi Teja. All rights reserved.

A little more to explore.

A joyful Border Collie relaxing on a sunny grassy field with a playful expression.

Dogs / Breeds

Gentle Giant Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets

Beyond the familiar Great Dane and Saint Bernard, a number of large, calm breeds carry the same gentle-giant temperament without quite the same name recognition. Most remain genuinely rare in India, b

3 min read