[jcruz]

i'm having a problem with my recently adopted pit bull Abbey (as in Road for Beatles fans). She goes for about 4 half hour walks daily, but it seems after her walks she becomes over excited! She will run around the house and spin in circles like a mad woman, snapping and generally getting into trouble. When I tell her no she will snap at me, and when I ignore her she'll do something like go under the bed (which she knows not to do) or chew something! Originally i tried rolling her onto her back (Alpha Roll?) until she is calm, but honestly I don't think thats very effective and I don't think forcing her to do something would be very helpful. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated

[Madeleinemom]

Please do not Alpha roll her; as you have seen it is not effective and can be potentially dangerous.

From what you describe, Abbey has energy to burn, and does so by zooming and generally being highly active.

Can you increase her excercise regimen to longer walks and interactive games in your backyard? The goal here would be to tire her both physically and mentally.

You mentioned that she 'snaps' at you ... what exactly does she do?

[jcruz]

i will normally hold my hand out and say "no", and she will proceed to act like we are playing a game, biting my hand playfully. Usually I will try and channel that energy constructively through training. We live in an apartment, so she doesn't get a lot of off leash outside time, and she still hasn't quite gotten the hang of jogging yet. I didn't mention earlier, but i've only had her for a few weeks so we're still getting acquainted.

[maryellen]

the half hour walks are not enough.. she needs at LEAST an hour walk each time, at a brisk pace ... a leisure walk will not burn off her energy... which is why she is zooming around the house once you get back.

i would get her on a set schedule, do strict NILIF (www.k9deb.com) Nothing In Life is Free, get a www.bustercube.com for mental exercise, and put her on a strict routine of exercise,disipline and more exercise..

the more structure you give her the more she will start to settle down...

get a 25 or 50 foot long leash to use for free running/smelling after your hard exercise, this way she can explore after as a reward...

the more exercise and structure you give her the more she will start to settle ..

the zoomies are a way to get out that pent up energy..

if you have to get up earlier then normal you will see how much it will help her get out her energy inthe morning..

you can also teach her to bike too with you, or rollerblade too...