If your dog still has plenty of energy after a long walk, you're not alone.

It's easy to assume they simply need more exercise, but for many dogs, adding another mile isn't the answer. Physical exercise is important, but it's only one part of keeping your dog happy and settled.

A combination giving them opportunities to use their brain, express natural behaviours and eat a balanced diet can be just as important as the distance they cover each day.

Let them use their nose

Dogs experience the world through their noses.

Stopping to sniff a tree, a lamp post or a patch of grass might seem like they're wasting time, but they're actually gathering information about the world around them. That mental effort can be surprisingly tiring.

Rather than rushing from A to B, try slowing the pace and giving your dog time to explore. A shorter walk with plenty of sniffing is often more rewarding than a longer walk where they're constantly encouraged to keep moving.

Give them a chance to think

Mental stimulation doesn't have to mean buying lots of puzzle toys.

Scatter a handful of treats in the garden, hide a favourite toy around the house or practise a few minutes of basic training. Even learning something simple, like "wait" or "spin", encourages your dog to concentrate and use their brain.

Many dogs are far more settled after ten minutes of problem-solving than they are after another lap of the park.

Encourage natural behaviours

Dogs are naturally wired to sniff, chase, chew and tug.

Giving them safe opportunities to enjoy those behaviours can help satisfy instincts that a lead walk alone doesn't always provide.

A game of tug, a flirt pole, a or a natural chew (like our large pig ear treats!) can all become part of a more balanced routine.

Don't overlook their diet

Exercise is only part of the picture. What goes into your dog's bowl can also play a role in how they feel throughout the day.

Many owners who switch to a raw diet tell us they notice their dogs have more consistent energy levels. While every dog is different, raw food is typically made with simple, recognisable ingredients and doesn't contain many of the additives, colourings or fillers often found in some highly processed foods.

Combined with feeding the right portion for your dog's age, size and activity level, this can help support a steady supply of energy throughout the day rather than leaving your dog feeling overly hungry or constantly looking for something to do.

If you're thinking about making the switch, our range of complete raw meals makes it easy to get started, with recipes from trusted brands and proteins to suit all kinds of dogs.

It's about balance

A well-rounded routine doesn't have to be complicated.

Aim to include a mix of:

• Walks where your dog has time to sniff and explore.
• Opportunities to run and play safely.
• Mental stimulation through training or games.
• Natural chews and enrichment.
• A balanced diet that's appropriate for your dog.

You don't need to do everything every day. Even introducing one or two of these ideas can make a noticeable difference.