When Do Malamutes Calm Down: (Tips For Hyper Malamutes)

Like many other Malamute parents, you might be wondering when your hyper Malamute pup will finally calm down.

I’ve been through this journey myself, mostly with huskies, but the same tips and advice work for malamutes too!

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insights into the Malamute’s energy levels and how you can proactively manage their energy to ensure a happy and well-behaved dog.

Understanding Malamute Energy Levels

First, let’s understand the energy levels of our furry friends. Malamutes are a working breed, originally bred to pull sleds in the Arctic. As a result, they have a high energy level and a strong work ethic. Typically, Malamutes calm down as they age, but there are factors that can influence this timeline:

• Genetics: Some lines of Malamutes are naturally calmer than others.
• Individual personality: Just like people, each dog is unique and can have a different energy level.
• Health: A healthy Malamute will likely have more energy than one with health issues.

On average, Malamutes start to show signs of calming down around the age of 2-3 years. However, it’s important to note that even older Malamutes can still be quite energetic and require regular exercise.

Proactive Energy Management

Instead of waiting for age alone to bring calmness to your Malamute, there are proactive steps you can take to manage their energy levels. By doing so, you’ll have a happier dog and a more harmonious household.

1. Consistent Exercise: A tired Malamute is a calm Malamute. Make sure your dog gets consistent exercise through daily walks, playtime, and other activities.
   • Aim for a minimum of 1-2 hours of exercise daily.
   • Mix it up with walks, hikes, and playtime in the backyard or dog park.
   • Consider engaging them in dog sports like agility, weight pulling, or canicross.
2. Mental Stimulation: Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise.
   • Use puzzle toys and interactive games to challenge their minds.
   • Obedience training and learning new tricks keep their brains engaged.
   • Rotate toys regularly to keep them interested and prevent boredom.

The Importance of Training

Training is essential for managing your Malamute’s energy and ensuring they are well-behaved. Start training early and be consistent. Here are a few tips to help you:

• Socialization: Expose your Malamute to different environments, people, and animals from a young age. This helps them learn to behave appropriately in various situations.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and play. This encourages them to repeat the desired behavior.
• Be Consistent: Use the same commands and expectations consistently to avoid confusion and ensure your Malamute understands what is expected of them.

Managing Your Malamute’s Energy Indoors

Sometimes, you’ll need to keep your Malamute calm while indoors. Here are some helpful tips for managing their energy inside the home:

1. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries in your home, like designating certain areas as off-limits. Consistently enforce these boundaries to teach your Malamute where they can and cannot go.
2. Create a Calm Environment: Reduce stimuli that might excite your dog, like loud noises or sudden movements. Encourage calm behavior by speaking in a soothing tone and using slow, gentle movements.
3. Crate Training: A crate can be a safe and comfortable space for your Malamute to relax. Make sure to introduce the crate gradually and positively, so your dog associates it with good things.

Less Known Ways to Help Calm Down Malamutes

Here are some additional ways to reduce hyperactivity in your Malamute:

1. Massage and Touch Therapy:

Gentle massage or touch therapy can help calm your Malamute and reduce their hyperactivity. Focus on slow, gentle strokes, and target specific areas such as their ears, neck, and shoulders. This can help your Malamute relax and release pent-up energy.

2. Establish a Routine:

Malamutes thrive on consistency. Establishing a daily routine for feeding, exercise, training, and sleep can help reduce hyperactivity by giving them a sense of stability and predictability.

3. Aromatherapy:

Using calming essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or valerian root can help create a soothing atmosphere for your Malamute. Make sure to use pet-safe essential oils and consult your veterinarian before introducing any new scents.

4. Thundershirts or Calming Wraps:

These snug-fitting garments apply gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s body, which can have a calming effect, similar to swaddling a baby. Thundershirts or calming wraps can be particularly useful during times of stress or anxiety, such as thunderstorms or fireworks.

5. Reward Calm Behavior:

Reinforce calm behavior by rewarding your Malamute with treats, praise, or affection when they are relaxed and behaving calmly. This will encourage them to repeat the desired behavior in the future.

6. Teach a “Settle” Command:

Train your Malamute to respond to a “settle” or “relax” command. This can be useful for times when you need them to calm down quickly. Start by rewarding them when they naturally display calm behavior and gradually introduce the verbal cue.

7. Provide a Safe Space:

Create a designated “safe space” for your Malamute, like a cozy corner or a designated room where they can retreat to when they need to relax or escape from overstimulating situations.

8. Monitor Diet:

A high-quality, balanced diet can help maintain stable energy levels in your Malamute. Avoid foods with excessive amounts of sugar, artificial additives, or fillers, as these can contribute to hyperactivity. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best diet for your specific dog.

Remember, each dog is unique, and what works for one Malamute may not work for another. Be patient, persistent, and willing to try different methods to find the best approach for your individual dog.

Recognizing Signs of Overstimulation

Malamutes can become overstimulated, which can lead to undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, jumping, or nipping. Learn to recognize the signs of overstimulation so you can intervene and redirect their energy:

• Whining or excessive vocalization
• Pacing or inability to settle down
• Increased heart rate and panting
• Destructive behavior

If you notice these signs, it’s time to intervene. Redirect your Malamute’s energy with a calming activity, like a short walk, a puzzle toy, or a brief training session. Be patient and remain consistent in your efforts to manage their energy.

The Benefits of a Calm Malamute

Taking the time and effort to proactively manage your Malamute’s energy levels pays off in many ways:

• Improved Behavior: A well-exercised and mentally stimulated Malamute is less likely to engage in destructive behavior or develop anxiety.
• Stronger Bond: Spending time training, exercising, and engaging with your Malamute strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: By meeting your Malamute’s physical and mental needs, you’re ensuring they live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Last thoughts

In conclusion, Malamutes typically start to calm down around the age of 2-3 years, but it’s essential to proactively manage their energy levels to ensure a well-behaved and content companion.

By providing consistent exercise, mental stimulation, and training, you can effectively channel your Malamute’s energy into positive activities.

Remember to be patient and consistent in your efforts, and soon enough, you’ll have a calmer and happier Malamute to share your life with. Happy Malamute parenting!