15 Simple Ways To Help Your Dog Stay Calm And Centered

One second your dog’s fine, the next they’re bouncing like a pinball. That sudden energy surge isn’t mischief—it’s overstimulation. Some dogs struggle to settle when the world feels loud or confusing. By making a few thoughtful changes, things can shift. So, here are 15 calming techniques that help your dog find steady ground again.

Offer A Snuffle Mat

Snuffle mats turn sniffing into a relaxing, stress-relieving activity. Your dog searches for treats hidden among the fabric folds, using its nose to stay focused. They’re perfect for rainy days or when your dog has a burst of pre-walk energy, helping to channel that excitement in a calming way.

Use Counter-Conditioning Techniques

Pairing a trigger, such as a doorbell, with calm, consistent rewards can alter emotional responses. Counter-conditioning rewires how canines interpret events. Over time, a once-excitable pet begins to anticipate quiet moments instead of chaos. This method is highly effective for pets who react explosively.

Apply Gentle Pressure With A Calming Vest

Calming vests apply gentle pressure across a dog’s chest and torso, resulting in reduced overstimulation in some canines. They’re especially helpful during car rides, fireworks, or family gatherings. For sensitive pups, this simple solution can be a quiet, life-changing comfort in stressful situations.

Schedule Predictable Routine Blocks

Canines thrive on routine. Feeding and playtime at consistent intervals help reduce anxiety, as they know what to expect next. When they can anticipate what’s coming, they can better conserve energy for those moments. Stick to a pattern, and you’ll likely see less of the wild energy and more calm.

Play The Right Type Of Music

Canines might not be metalheads, but classical, soft rock, and reggae music have been shown to reduce stress in shelter pets. Skip the bass drops and stick to slower beats. A carefully curated “pet chill” playlist can work wonders—just don’t expect your dog to start dancing.

Try Lick Mats During High-Energy Windows

Lick. Focus. Breathe. Mats smeared with peanut butter or yogurt encourage soothing, repetitive licking. This sensory activity taps into your dog’s calming reflexes, helping them relax. Use it during crate time or when guests arrive—it’s snack time with the added bonus of behavioral benefits.

Bring Back Familiar Scents

Familiar scents, like pheromones or a worn shirt, can help reduce anxiety, with pheromones being the most studied. When your dog feels overstimulated or anxious, these familiar smells act as anchors, providing comfort. In times of transition or travel, scent becomes a symbol of safety.

Help Focus With Hand Targeting

A simple cue like “Touch” can turn chaos into calm. Teaching your dog to boop your hand with their nose helps improve their attention and emotional redirection. It’s more than just a trick—during high-energy moments, this cue helps bring their focus back to you, calming them down.

Introduce A Calming Phrase

Introducing a calming phrase, such as “relax,” during quiet moments of bonding can help create a calm association, although this approach is less studied. Over time, the phrase can serve as a cue for your dog to settle down. Just remember, use it during calm moments, not when your dog is already worked up.

Reduce Visual Stimulation

Is your dog barking at the window? It’s likely triggered by something outside, like a jogger or delivery truck. Blocking their view can help reduce their excitement. Try using curtains or moving furniture to limit what they can see. Sometimes, simply closing the blinds can bring peace to both you and your dog.

Train Short Nose-To-Ground Walks

Picture your dog strolling slowly, nose close to the ground, fully absorbed in the world of scents. These “sniff walks” help calm the nervous system more effectively than brisk walks. Let the leash relax and allow your dog’s nose to set the pace, guiding the mood and creating a peaceful, mindful experience.

Practice Scatter Feeding In Grass

Why dump kibble into a bowl when the grass can offer a mental workout? Scatter feeding encourages natural foraging, which channels energy and slows the pet’s pace. This technique works especially well for excitable eaters needing a brain break.

Offer Chews That Last

Long-lasting options, such as frozen carrots or beef tendons, help ease stress by working both the jaw and the mind. Always supervise and pick safe sizes. What seems like a simple treat is often your pup’s way of finding calm.

Rotate Toys Instead Of Overloading

Too many toys at once can lead to overstimulation. Instead, try rotating just 2–3 every few days to keep things fresh and focused. This way, your dog stays excited in a healthy, engaged way—without spiraling into chaotic energy.

Set Up A Decompression Zone

Every dog benefits from a calm, low-stimulation space to unwind. A decompression area—quiet and away from busy spots—helps pets relax and self-soothe. It’s not a time-out or punishment, but a safe retreat that supports emotional regulation and reduces stress.