Activity level

[Cathy Mcmahon]

Dory is now 18 months old and she still is quite active. She get good exercise, but she still is kind of jumpy. On walks she like to be the one to go up to the person first. If they try to pet her she will
shy away.

She was well socialized as a pup and has had training. She get real excited when she seem people and will pull a little, but when they approach her she is a little shy at first.

WHen do they calm down and become more sure of new situations. People tell me that she still
acts like a puppy. She is the most lovable dog and I enjoy her, but i wish she would settle down a little more.

[Barbara B., Sasha & Oliver]

I think every dog is different, my Oliver gets very excited when on car rides if he sees a person or dog.  But when we are on our walks he could care less.  Oliver will be 3 on Sunday and he still has a bit of puppy in him :)   I think you might have to do a bit more training and let her know what behavior is acceptable and what is not.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I have a nine year old Springer Spaniel and I am still waiting.......   Both of my doodles are not high energy, at least compared to our Springer.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I really think they calm down and become more sure of themselves when you've done some training with them.  This gives them a great outlet for their energy and teaches them how to meet other people.  Have you done any training yet with Dory?  Also, at 18 months they're still puppies in so many ways.  My four year old is still full of energy and I hope he stays like that for many more years...he still needs plenty of exercise every day.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I agree that training is key to behavior that is more like you describe.  Our Springer is hyper/anxious all of the time.  He lays around the house with us  like a slug, but give him the slightest reason to get up and he is up in a flash (hence his name - Flash Gordon).