Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Best Food for Hyperactive Dogs

Read time: 3 mins

09 Aug 2023

In a world filled with boundless energy and endless curiosity, hyperactive dogs often steal the spotlight with their exuberance and enthusiasm. As owners, we're dedicated to ensuring our pooches live their happiest and healthiest lives. One pivotal factor in achieving this balance lies in their diet. Just as the right fuel can boost a car's performance, the best food can play a crucial role in managing and channelling a hyperactive dog's spirited nature.

What is a Hyperactive Dog?

A hyperactive dog is a dog that’s simply bursting with energy. These dogs are always on the move, bouncing around from one thing to the next. Hyperactivity can be more pronounced in certain dog breeds, like terriers or hunting dogs. 


Generally, dogs need at least an hour of exercise each day to stay healthy, but hyperactive pups need a lot more. These energetic pups are happier when they’re constantly engaged in physical activities like walking, running, or playing fetch.

Signs of a Hyperactive Dog

Hyperactivity in dogs can manifest in a few different ways. Some of the most common signs include:


  • Jumping

  • Digging

  • Chewing

  • Excessive barking

  • Running or jogging aimlessly

  • Difficulty settling down

  • Restlessness

  • Poor concentration

  • Impulsivity

  • Inability to learn or retain commands


Every dog has their own energy levels. Still, if your dog is experiencing any of these behaviours more frequently or to a more extreme level than usual, you might have a hyperactive dog.

Why is My Dog So Hyperactive?

There are a number of reasons why your dog might be so hyperactive. 


The most common one is simply their breed - some are just naturally more energetic. However, lack of exercise, boredom and anxiety can also contribute to hyperactivity. Another reason may be linked to their diet. Feeding your dog a diet high in carbohydrates, artificial additives, or low-quality ingredients can cause your dog to suffer a sort of sugar rush, just like in humans. This results in restlessness, excessive energy, and ultimately, exhaustion.


Exposure to stress, loud noises, or changes in routine can all lead to an increase in your dog's stress levels and thus an increase in energy.

What to Feed a Hyperactive Dog

Feeding a balanced diet with high-quality proteins, fat and slow-release carbohydrates can help improve your dog's energy levels. Eating smaller meals throughout the day in conjunction with physical activity can also help avoid energy spikes and the behavioural issues that come with it. The food should be free of artificial preservatives, by-products, and other chemicals.


Fresh dog food is an excellent choice to meet these requirements since it provides high-quality, whole ingredients without the processing that often removes the nutrients and minerals. Better yet, fresh dog foods have a variety of flavours that’s sure to appeal to all types of dogs.

Butternut Box is Perfect for Hyperactive Dogs

At Butternut Box, we provide a variety of flavours and food options for dogs with unique dietary needs. Our meals are made using premium ingredients, including human-grade meats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, making it nutrient-dense and tasty. They’re also free of preservatives, fillers, and artificial additives, making them a healthy, wholesome option for your hyperactive pup. We offer personalised meal plans with customised feeding portions based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level, which makes it easy to ensure your hyperactive dog gets the right amount of food for their daily activities.