If you would like to know how to keep your dog calm, you can follow a few tips that will help soothe him. An agitated dog may be bothersome for you, your family and neighbors. Barking or jumping up and down are just a few signs of an agitated dog. An aggressive dog also needs to be calmed.
Voice Commands
Use voice commands whenever you see that your dog starts to get aggressive or agitated.
Use a sharp "No" or "Don't," and pull your dog’s collar. Use the same tone of voice every time you notice this behavior.
Ignore the dog for the following 5 minutes, even if it's difficult for you. The dog will learn that his behavior is not acceptable and will recognize the voice commands the next time you use them, so it will be easier for you to calm him.
You may also use a whistle or water sprayer instead of voice commands, but make sure you have these at hand at all times.
Use the Leash
When your dog displays unwanted behavior, such as aggressiveness, just use the leash and tie him. This will not allow him to jump and may calm him down.
Use the Crate
The crate may be used as a time out space, when your dog needs to calm down. When you see any agitation or aggressiveness, send the dog to his crate. This confined space should not have any toys, so that the dog won’t have any distractions.
Keep the dog in his crate for 10 minutes. If he doesn't calm down, repeat the procedure; send him back. Even the most obstinate dog should be quiet after 2 or 3 time out sessions.
Exercise
Dogs that work out on a regular basis are less likely to be agitated and aggressive. Exercise is a beneficial way to spend the dog’s energy, so he won’t be overly active for the rest of the day.
Observe Your Dog’s Behavior
See what makes your dog agitated or aggressive. If this behavior is triggered by other pets or by a member of your family, train your dog. Whenever you see that your dog is about to become agitated, offer him a treat or a chew toy before he starts barking or jumping. This will create a reflex in your dog. He will associate a pleasant event with the trigger of his aggressiveness or agitation, and will expect a treat or a toy instead of displaying an unwanted behavior.
Proper behavior training may reduce your dog’s tendencies to become aggressive and agitated. Your dog must learn to obey your commands. Start the training when the dog is a puppy.
Don’t use force or beat your dog when you don’t like his behavior. Your aggressiveness may make your dog more aggressive or stressed.
Always use the calm down techniques immediately after your dog starts being agitated. He must understand which behaviors you disapprove of.