🌟 Training Tips for High-Energy Breeds Like Border Collies and Huskies 🌟

Have you ever looked at your Border Collie or Husky and thought, How on earth do you have this much energy?! 🤯 If so, you’re not alone. These breeds are the Olympic athletes of the dog world—always ready to run, jump, and work (even if there’s no actual job to do).

But here’s the thing: A tired dog is a happy dog (and a happy owner). If you don’t meet their mental and physical needs, you might find your house destroyed or your backyard turned into a hole-ridden mess. Yikes.

So, let’s dive into some expert-backed, real-world training tips to keep your high-energy pup engaged, well-behaved, and happily exhausted. Let’s do this! 🚀

1. Exercise: More Than Just a Walk Around the Block

Let’s be real: a casual stroll isn’t going to cut it for a Husky or a Border Collie. These dogs were bred for work, and they need structured exercise to thrive.

Best Activities for High-Energy Dogs:

✅ Running/Jogging – If you’re a runner, congrats! You just found the perfect training partner. ✅ Hiking – Uneven terrain + new smells = a great mental and physical workout. ✅ Bikejoring – Ever seen a dog pull a bike? Huskies LOVE it.
✅ Fetch with a Purpose – Make them sit and stay before releasing them to fetch. Engages both body and brain!
✅ Agility Training – Set up an obstacle course in your yard or join a local agility class.

💡 Pro Tip: Try using a weighted backpack on walks—it makes the exercise more intense and gives them a job to do.

2. Mental Stimulation: Because a Bored Dog is a Destructive Dog

Physical exercise is only half the battle. These smart dogs need mental challenges to stay out of trouble. If you don’t give them a job, they’ll make one up (like redecorating your living room with shredded pillows).

Brain-Boosting Activities:

✅ Puzzle Toys – Treat-dispensing toys can keep them busy while making them think. ✅ Hide-and-Seek – Hide their favorite toy or treats and let them sniff it out. ✅ Trick Training – Teach advanced tricks like spinning, weaving between your legs, or playing dead. ✅ Scent Work – Let them use their nose! Hide treats around the house and let them find them.
✅ Food Dispensing Toys – Swap out their regular bowl for a slow feeder or a Kong.

💡 Pro Tip: Short mental workouts (5-10 minutes) can tire out your dog just as much as a long walk.

3. Training That Works: Consistency is Key!

High-energy dogs are crazy smart, but that means they can also outsmart you if you’re not consistent with training. Huskies are notorious escape artists, and Border Collies will find loopholes in your commands if you’re not clear.

Key Training Tips:

✅ Use Positive Reinforcement – Praise, treats, or a quick play session = a motivated pup. ✅ Be Consistent – If you let them jump on guests sometimes but not always, they’ll be confused. ✅ Set Boundaries – No free-for-all play 24/7. Structure their day with set times for training, play, and rest. ✅ Teach Impulse Control – Commands like “Wait” and “Leave It” are game-changers. ✅ Short & Fun Sessions – High-energy dogs can get bored easily. Keep training sessions short and rewarding.

💡 Pro Tip: If your Husky is ignoring you, don’t chase them. Instead, run the opposite direction like a game—they’ll follow you!

4. Socialization: Teaching Them Manners

These breeds can be super friendly but also overwhelming if they haven’t learned proper manners.

How to Socialize the Right Way:

✅ Expose Them to Different People & Dogs – Don’t just stick to the same walking route. Take them to dog-friendly areas. ✅ Controlled Playtime – Teach them when to stop playing (before things get too rough). ✅ Desensitization – Get them used to bikes, skateboards, loud noises, etc.

💡 Pro Tip: If they get too excited meeting new people, have guests ignore them until they calm down. No jumping = attention.

5. Rest & Recovery: Yes, Even High-Energy Dogs Need Downtime

Even the most active breeds need structured rest. Some dogs don’t know how to relax unless you teach them.

How to Encourage Rest:

✅ Create a Quiet Space – A crate, a dog bed, or a cozy corner = a safe spot to unwind. ✅ Set a Routine – Dogs thrive on structure. Keep meals, playtime, and rest on a schedule. ✅ Enforce Nap Time – Overstimulated dogs = cranky, destructive behavior. ✅ Use Calming Activities – Gentle petting, slow belly rubs, and soft music can help.

💡 Pro Tip: Training a “Settle” command teaches them to relax on cue!

Final Thoughts

Owning a high-energy breed is like having a furry tornado in your house. But with the right exercise, training, and structure, you’ll have an incredibly loyal, intelligent, and well-behaved companion.

So, go ahead—channel that energy into something productive, and enjoy the amazing bond you’ll build with your supercharged pup! 🚀🐶

Got a high-energy dog? Drop your best training tip in the comments! 👇🏼