A Holistic Remedy for Overactive Chihuahuas

Holistic remedies treat an entire person or animal, not just the symptoms of a specific disease or condition. People with overactive dogs, specifically Chihuahuas, can use a holistic approach to calm their dog. This improves the dog's overall health and prevents the use of medication. Chihuahuas are very active dogs, so it is important to help your pet gain control of his behavior before an injury occurs or you lose patience with his behavior.

  1. Diet

    • Animal behavior is linked to its diet. Like people, dogs consuming excess sugar behave in a restless, aggressive and hyper manner. Food additives, preservatives and artificial coloring also contribute to hyperactivity. Choosing dog food without these ingredients reduces your pet's overactive tendencies. Chihuahuas are very small, so even small amounts of these stimulating ingredients in their systems cause a major reaction. Feeding your Chihuahua all-natural, wholesome food is worth the effort and expense.

      Adding certain foods and herbs to your dog's diet also is effective. Cooked oats are high in fiber and have a nerve-calming effect. Mixing oatmeal with your pet's dry kibble reduces overactive behavior and promotes healthy digestion. Valerian and chamomile both reduce anxiety, tension and excitability. Add a bit of brewed chamomile tea to your Chihuahua's water bowl or hide a valerian capsule inside of a dog treat. Check with your veterinarian before using herbs or making significant changes in your pet's diet. Like stimulating ingredients, healthy remedies must also be used in very small amounts, especially for tiny dogs like Chihuahuas.

    Environment

    • Holistic remedies include environmental changes. Dogs living in chaotic environments struggle with overactive behavior because everything around them causes stress. This is especially true for tiny dogs, such as Chihuahuas, that are easily overwhelmed. Reducing the clutter in your home creates a relaxing feeling for your Chihuahua. Dogs need a place of their own, away from stimulation. When your Chihuahua becomes overactive, guide him to this area for quiet time. A space with a soft bed and one chew-toy is ideal. Putting a few drops of lavender oil on the bed also has a calming effect.

    Activity

    • A common reason dog's misbehave is excess energy. Dogs of all sizes need exercise and controlled physical activity. Owners sometimes forget small dogs need physical activity, because the dog might be trained to use the bathroom indoors like a cat. Chihuahuas are also reluctant to go outdoors when the weather is cold and wet. Walk your Chihuahua at least twice a day and provide him with a place to run outdoors. During days when the weather does not permit outdoor play, provide an indoor activity area with toys and space to run. Fifteen to 20 minutes of physical activity in the morning and evening is enough to prevent hyperactivity at inappropriate times.

    General Health

    • A combination of improvements is the best holistic remedy. It is also important to work closely with your Chihuahua's veterinarian. Overactive behavior is normal for this breed of dog, but it is still important to determine if your pet's overall health is in order. Understand that puppy behavior calms as the dog matures. Certain events cause hyperactivity regardless of a dog's age. Once you understand your pet's normal behavior, you can better treat abnormal issues.