Managing an Adolescent Dog: Tips for Getting Through this Stage
Dealing with your dog's teenage phase can be tough – for you, that is!
Has your once adorable, well-behaved pup suddenly turned into a handful? Is he ignoring your commands, chasing after anything that catches his eye, and gnawing on everything in sight? Have his once-perfect obedience skills vanished overnight? Are his friendly greetings now boisterous and overwhelming? Does he sometimes seem cautious or distant, as if he doesn't recognize you?
If your dog is between six and 18 months old, he's likely in the adolescent phase – where his body looks mature, but his brain is still catching up. Many of the challenging behaviors you're experiencing, like chewing, hyperactivity, and distractibility, are normal for this stage of development. Alongside brain maturation, adolescent dogs undergo growth spurts, secondary teething, hormonal changes, and occasional fear periods.
The teenage months often strike fear into the hearts of dog owners, leading some to surrender their pets to shelters due to destructive behavior or perceived lack of control. However, adolescence doesn't have to be a nightmare. In fact, it can be an exciting and enjoyable time. Much like human teenagers, adolescent dogs can be energetic, playful, curious, eager to learn, and up for anything (among learning a new variety of vocabularly not for the faint of heart).
The following tips will not only help you survive your dog's teenage phase but also thrive as you navigate this challenging age together.
1. Keep Your Young Dog Active
Adolescent dogs are known for their seemingly endless reserves of energy and vitality. Even a lengthy stroll on a leash might not be enough to satisfy your dog's boundless enthusiasm. In addition to walks, consider incorporating activities such as interactive play with other dogs, invigorating games of chase, refreshing swims, and opportunities for exploration in new environments. Providing ample physical and mental stimulation is key to keeping your adolescent dog content and well-behaved.
However, it's important to recognize the need for downtime as well. Allowing your dog to rest quietly for part of the day can help regulate stress hormones and prevent excessive excitement. Striking a balance between periods of rest, physical exercise, and mental engagement will help your dog maintain their best behavior.
Furthermore, it's essential to be mindful of your dog's physical development. Since adolescent bodies are still growing and their joints are not fully developed, it's wise to refrain from engaging in repetitive, high-impact activities like agility, Frisbee, or long-distance running until your dog is at least a year old. This precautionary measure can help minimize the risk of injury and promote long-term joint health for your furry companion.
2. Cultivate Healthy Social Connections
Throughout your dog's teenage phase, it's essential to nurture positive interactions with both humans and other dogs. To bolster your dog's social skills with people, make regular outings in your neighborhood or other areas bustling with activity. Encourage visits from friends to reinforce the idea of a welcoming environment at home. Practice manners like "four on the floor" or "sit to greet" to discourage jumping, and use a leash if necessary to maintain control during introductions. Reward your dog with treats, affection, or playtime for appropriate behavior.
When it comes to socializing with other dogs, arrange playdates with your dog's preferred playmates for lively and playful interactions. Select walking routes that expose your dog to other dogs, and teach proper leash etiquette for polite passing without excessive excitement.
For opportunities to meet new dogs, explore dog-friendly locales like beaches or hiking trails where off-leash play is permitted. Encourage brief greetings and reinforce positive behavior with enticing rewards to encourage focus and cooperation during walks.
3. Maintain Consistent Training!
It's common for previous training to seem forgotten when a dog hits adolescence. Commands like "sit" may be met with sniffing, and "come" might be ignored entirely. Don't take it personally! Adolescent dogs, much like human teenagers, are exploring the world, their role in it, and their own boundaries. They may seem less interested in you and more focused on their surroundings and peers as they learn to think independently.
Keep up with training, or start if you haven't already. Make training sessions enjoyable by incorporating play and varied activities to keep your young dog interested. Practice in realistic settings, starting with ones that aren't too challenging so your dog can experience success. Slowly introduce more distracting environments as they progress.
Balance training exercises that focus on impulse control, such as "sit," "down," and "stay," with fun and stimulating activities like learning tricks. Reward your dog generously for making good choices and responding appropriately to commands. Use a variety of rewards, including treats, attention, playtime, and the chance to explore.
Remember, your adolescent dog's reliability may fluctuate. Keep working with them, understanding that they're still growing, developing, and learning. With patience and consistent training, they'll continue to mature into a well-behaved adult dog.
4. Control Your Adolescent Dog's Surroundings
Surviving your dog's adolescence hinges on effectively managing their environment to minimize opportunities for trouble. Consider the following strategies:
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Confine your young dog in a crate or a puppy-proofed area when you're not able to supervise them closely. Ensure they have plenty of stimulating and safe chew toys to keep them occupied.
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When teaching your dog to come when called, always keep them on a leash or a long line while outdoors. Allow off-leash freedom only in secure areas where they can't cause mischief and where you can easily regain their attention or physically control them when playtime ends.
Remember, your young dog is still learning how to navigate the world. Assist them in making good choices by utilizing leashes, long lines, crates, and baby gates to prevent undesirable behavior. Be patient, as adolescent dogs may forget commands or become overly excited, requiring your assistance to redirect their focus. With careful management and guidance, your dog will learn to make better choices as they mature.
5. Embrace Your Dog's Youth!
Your dog's adolescent exuberance, vitality, and eagerness are truly infectious. Take a moment to cherish the experiences and lessons your dog is encountering.
However, it's essential to recognize that adolescence isn't always smooth sailing for your dog. They may face challenges, such as annoying other dogs or people, feeling overwhelmed, or even experiencing fear in certain situations. It's a stressful time as they navigate unfamiliar behaviors and expectations.
Appreciate your dog's youthful antics – from their playful invitations to romp around to their joy over the simplest pleasures. Try to view the world from your adolescent dog's perspective – go on adventures together and relish where their curiosity leads you.
Adolescence marks the transition to adulthood for your dog and also signifies the growth and strengthening of your bond. Look beyond merely surviving your dog's adolescence; strive to thrive together as you navigate and overcome this developmental phase and beyond.
