As we move towards spring, we often see energy levels rising. Lighter mornings and more time outside — it’s lovely.
But when dogs feel more excited, many owners reach for the ball launcher.
The intention is good:
tire them out → calmer dog at home.
Yet the science of arousal tells us it doesn’t always work like that.
What happens when we constantly throw a ball?
Chasing triggers adrenaline.
Adrenaline can remain in the body for hours after a walk with lots of ball chasing and dogs can live in a near-constant state of heightened arousal if this is your usual routine.
Instead of calm, you may see:
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difficulty settling
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over-reactivity
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frustration around other dogs
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inability to switch off at home
More exercise doesn’t always equal a more relaxed dog. Your intentions are well meaning but often, throwing a ball constantly creates a fitter, more highly charged one.
The idea behind South West Dog Skills’ Fling Less February
The campaign isn’t about banning the ball.
It’s about creating variety and helping owners discover ways to walk that improve connection, engagement and emotional balance.
The challenge is simple:
👉 halve the flinging walks
👉 replace them with something calmer and more thoughtful
Ideas to try instead
Sniff walks – let your dog explore new locations. Scatter treats, slow down, follow them.
30 in 30 – use 30 treats in 30 minutes to reward engagement.
Check-ins – notice and reward every glance your dog gives you with praise and fuss.
Training walks – practise loose lead walking, recall or calm passing.
Rest days – swap miles for mental enrichment at home.
These activities work the brain, build partnership and leave dogs pleasantly tired rather than wired.
Where daycare fits in
At Tom & Toto, this philosophy sits at the heart of everything we do.
Dogs are not hyped up all day.
They experience:
💛 Carefully matched groups of dogs
💛 Rest and decompression daily
💛 Enrichment and problem solving
💛 Guided, healthy play
💛 Opportunities to practise calm behaviour around other dogs
The result? Dogs who come home content, not wired.
For many families in Norwich, daycare becomes the perfect balance to high-energy walks — meeting social and mental needs in a structured, safe way. If you are short on time with your dog, rather than reaching for the ballf flinger let us help.
Want a calmer dog this spring?
If you’re curious how enrichment-led daycare can support your dog’s behaviour, confidence and ability to settle at home, we’d love to show you around.
👉 Book a free Settle In Session
👉 Chat to our team about your dog
👉 Learn how we match play styles and energy levels
