Adolescent Dog Needs, Common Challenges, and Solutions
Dogs, just like humans, go through their own version of adolescence. That wide-eyed and attentive little puppy that used to follow you around now develops a streak of independence. It's a natural phase of life that can test the patience of you as a dog parents, leaving you with a few more gray hairs and furrowed brows. Suddenly, the outside world becomes more enticing, and your once inseparable bond takes a backseat. The surroundings need exploring, potential partners need seeking, and the desire to chase after prey becomes stronger. Your role may seem less important, but rest assured, it's all part of the journey.
Keys to managing young dogs' challenges
But how do you navigate through this challenging period? And how do you guide your teenager to become a harmonious adult dog? The most important things are understanding, patience, and consistent routines. It is crucial to understand the hormonal roller coaster that young dogs go through.
Physical and mental changes in young dogs
Small breeds may reach sexual maturity around 6-7 months of age, while larger breeds may not until around a year. During this time, the dog undergoes physical and psychological changes that can confuse them. Drives that the puppy has not experienced before, such as guarding, hunting, and interest in the opposite sex, start to emerge, and your young dog tries to navigate through all these emotions.
Hormonal changes and behavior
Physically, the young dog becomes stronger, faster, and has endurance she/he have never experienced before. Young male dogs have higher levels of testosterone than adults. The hormone stimulates competitive and challenging tendencies, vigilance, and even reactivity in some cases.
How running affects your young dog
Female dogs go through heat cycles, which include pain, changes in appetite, restlessness, increased need for closeness, a strong interest in males, and at the same time, a distancing depending on where they are in their cycle. Many dogs struggle to recognize themselves in all of this. Additionally, they are met by other dogs in a different way than before, which can make them see themselves differently. For more information on the bitch run, see Female heat cycle - everything you need to know!
Changes in the personality of the young dog
There is simply a lot to process. Therefore, the young dog's personality may appear to change, and certain traits may become exaggerated. The bold puppy can become an overconfident teenager, and the shy one can become very reserved. No, not all young dogs go wild. Some calmly go through it, while others become more insecure for a period. This is also normal. What we do (rather than what the dog does) with this is crucial for the dog's development.
The importance of guidance and procedures
So equip yourself with patience and understanding. Set boundaries when needed. Do not let the teenager off the leash if she/he cannot handle it without running away, chasing, or guarding independently, among other things. Leash, fences, support, and your guidance are what your teenage dog needs.Participate in Petlis Adolescent course that focus on training such as impulse control, relaxation, cooperation with you, as well as physical and mental outlets. When everything is turmoil inside, the energy needs a direction to go. The more you can channel the drive in the right direction, the better.
Tasks to reduce stress in young dogs
During the adolescent phase, it is time to show the dog what they are meant for. Put your young dog to work. Choose a sport or activity that suits both you and, most importantly, your dog's breed and individual characteristics. Many young dogs are understimulated and/or stressed. Work your dog pleasantly tired every day but also reduce stress factors. Stress is harmful and can make even the friendliest of dogs completely lose control.
Challenges at the right level strengthen the bond
After ample and regular outlets, it becomes easier to shape a well-behaved teenager. Start by challenging them in situations and environments where the dog can stay calm and do good, praise and reward wanted behaviours. Make it slightly more difficult, as it is more important that your training enhances your bond and teaches the dog good foundations than advancing to something the dog may not be capable of until adulthood.
Play and interaction to strengthen the bond
Avoid free play with unfamiliar dogs during this period when the risk of clashes and unnecessary conflicts is high. Let your youngster romp and play with dog friends they are familiar with and trust.Play with your dog yourself; it strengthens your bond and should not be focused on performance. It can be relaxing for a teenager with reasonably short attention span to skip the college entrance exam.
Incorporate interaction into play, such as having your dog sit while you hide a toy, wait for permission before starting a treat search, and practice contact and calmness before tug-of-war. With that, you will go a long way.
Taking responsibility in social situations
Avoid giving the young dog too much responsibility. Intervene between the dog and perceived threats. For example, during a meeting on a walk if the dog otherwise jumps forward, barks, growls, withdraws, yawns, or looks away. Show that you take responsibility for encounters. When interacting with other people, explain what your dog needs in the meeting so that the experience turns out as you intended. Your dog will perceive your guidance, and your role in social situations becomes evident.
Fair distribution of resources creates security
When interacting with other dogs regarding resources such as toys, chew bones, or resting places, be fair and ensure that everyone has either multiple resources or none. Show who gets what and remove your dog or fend off the other dog so that no one snatches things at another's expense. Do not judge what the dogs do; just ensure that it is fair and respectful. Again, you take responsibility, which gives secure dogs.
Consistent training and routines
Being consistent is important for your young dog. The same rules apply in all contexts, regardless of where you are or who is present. This creates stability. Practice leash training and recall, and be diligent about routines that are important to you. For example, having the dog sit before greetings or sitting behind you when opening the front door for visitors. Repeat the routine, encourage and reward your dog's desirable behaviors, and thereby prepare for cooperation in everyday life.
Consistent practice for long-term success
Dogs need to practice what we expect from them. During this period, it may feel like talking to a wall. But being calm, patient, and clear in a friendly manner will help the dog understand your intentions. The next day, what you succeeded with may seem forgotten. That's okay; be just as consistent again and again. When the hormones settle, you will reap the rewards of having a confident and well-behaved adult dog.
Identifying negative experiences and conditions
- Negative experiences that have affected the puppy often manifest during the young dog phase. Additionally, hereditary predispositions to behavioral issues may come to light during this life stage. If your dog displays more than just teenage behavior, contact a certified dog psychologist to help your dog regain emotional balance.
- Physical ailments become noticeable for the first time during this life stage once the body has finished growing. Hip dysplasia, elbow arthritis, patella luxation, hereditary diseases, or allergies can cause symptoms that may be interpreted as general stress or reactivity. Consult a reputable veterinarian to ensure everything is in order.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
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