3 Signs Your Dog is Overtired

3 Signs Your Dog is Overtired

We’ve all heard the saying “a tired dog is a good dog,” right? Well… not always. Just like people, dogs can cross the line from happily tired to completely wiped out. And when that happens, their behavior can actually get worse, not better.

Here are three clear signs your pup might be running on empty:

1. Zoomies that turn into chaos

A little burst of zoomies is normal and even healthy. But if your dog is going from calm to wild tornado mode over and over again, it could be overstimulation rather than “fun energy.” Think of it like a toddler getting the giggles right before a meltdown.

2. Extra cranky or snappy

Does your usually sweet pup get snappy with other dogs or family members after a busy day? Overtired dogs can lose patience quickly. If you notice grumbling, growling, or even ignoring cues they usually know, it’s probably not bad manners—it’s exhaustion talking.

3. Trouble settling down

When your dog can’t seem to chill—even though they’ve had a long walk, playtime, or daycare—it might be their body’s version of being “overtired wired.” Instead of resting, they pace, whine, or bark at every sound.

What to Do

The best fix? Rest and routine. Give your dog a cozy spot to crash, keep the environment calm, and avoid piling on more stimulation. Sometimes less is more when it comes to keeping your pup balanced and happy.

Because at the end of the day, a well-rested dog is the one who’s ready for adventures tomorrow.

✨ That’s exactly what we focus on in Farm Playgroups — giving dogs the chance to run, sniff, wrestle, and explore until they’re happily content. By the time we load back into the van, they’re ready to curl up and snooze to soft “dog relaxation” music on the drive home. They get their adventure and their recovery time — the perfect balance.

💡 Want your pup to join the fun?S pots for our Farm Playgroups are limited and fill quickly. Head to www.staywilddogs.com and join the waitlist today to save your pup’s spot for upcoming adventures.