I have a kitten and a 1.5 year old Australian shepherd. How do I get my dog to relax?

I hear you, the struggle with an energetic pup is real! Here's the thing - dogs like your Australian shepherd are highly intelligent, sensitive, and adaptable by nature. When they don't have their needs met, they find creative (and often destructive) ways to get attention and release that pent-up energy. The key is to tap into their innate drive to learn, explore, and engage with you. Start by establishing a strong foundation with the Seasonal Adaptation Strategy - this involves adjusting your training and activities to match your dog's changing energy levels throughout the year. Next, use the Threshold Management System to gradually expose your dog to new sights, sounds, and experiences while keeping them below their stress threshold. This helps build confidence and reduce anxiety. For the biting and couch-surfing, try the Traffic Light System. When you see the warning signs (yellow light), quickly interrupt the behavior with a sharp "Ah-ah!" then redirect your dog's attention to a toy or treat. Reward calm, relaxed behavior (green light) with praise and playtime. Removing access to the couch can also help. Consistency and patience are key. As you implement these strategies, you'll start to see real breakthroughs. Your dog will learn to self-soothe, settle on their own, and channel that energy into more positive outlets. Before long, you'll have a relaxed, well-adjusted pup who's a joy to be around. Hang in there - you've got this!