How to Tire Your Dog Out Within 10 Minutes in 2026

If you’ve ever heard someone say “I need to walk my dog for hours to burn their energy”, this one’s for you.

In 2026, we know better.

Physical exercise alone doesn’t truly tire a dog out. Mental engagement + short bursts of movement will drain your dog’s battery far faster than endless walking.

Here’s one simple, powerful game you can run anywhere that will mentally and physically exhaust your dog in under 10 minutes.

The 10‑Minute Energy Drainer: The “Around” Game

This game combines:

• Clear structure

• Problem‑solving

• Impulse control

• Short explosive movement

Perfect for high‑energy dogs, reactive dogs, or dogs that never seem tired.

All you need is:

• One object (cone, pole, goal post, chair, tree)

• A tug toy or a ball

Step 1: Teach the “Around” Command

Start by teaching your dog to move around an object on cue.

1. Place your dog close to the object (cone, pole, etc.)

2. Use food or a lure to guide your dog around the object

3. As they complete the circle, say “Around”

4. Reward immediately

Repeat this until your dog clearly understands that “Around” means go around the object.

Keep this calm and clear, you’re building understanding, not speed yet.

Step 2: Add Distance + Drive

Now the magic happens.

1. Move a short distance away from the object (1–2 metres)

2. Cue “Around”

3. As your dog completes the circle and drives back toward you:

   • Reward with a tug toy or

   • Throw a ball forward as they return

     
     

This creates:

• Anticipation

• Focus

• Explosive movement

Step 3: Repeat With Intensity (Not Duration)

Run this in short bursts:

• 3–5 reps

• 10–15 seconds rest

• Repeat for 5–10 minutes

• 
  

Do not drag it out.

The goal is:

• Fast thinking

• Quick decisions

• Controlled excitement

That’s what drains energy.

Why This Works So Well

Dogs don’t just get tired from moving, they get tired from thinking.

This game forces your dog to:

• Listen to a cue

• Process direction

• Control arousal

• Explode into movement

• Re‑engage with you

  
  

Ten minutes of this is often more effective than a 60‑minute walk.

Bonus Tips

• Use high‑value rewards (tug beats food for most dogs here)

• Stop while your dog still wants more

• Keep sessions short and structured

• This is especially powerful before walks or before guests arrive

Final Thought

If your dog is still bouncing off the walls after long walks, the issue isn’t lack of exercise, it’s lack of engagement.

Train the brain, and the body follows.

Ten minutes. Clear structure. Big results.

If you want more practical, no‑nonsense dog training like this, you know where to find me.