How To Manage Your Teenage Puppy

Adolescence is often the most misunderstood stage in a dog’s life. Just like human teenagers, adolescent dogs go through significant developmental changes that affect their behavior, decision-making, and impulse control. This phase typically begins around six months of age and can last until a dog is about a year and a half old, sometimes even longer depending on breed. Unfortunately, this is also the most common age range for dogs to be surrendered or rehomed, as many owners struggle to manage their dog’s changing behavior.

The Science Behind Canine Adolescence

During adolescence, a dog’s brain undergoes a series of changes that can make them seem unpredictable, stubborn, or defiant. Research has shown that during this time, the brain is still developing key structures, including the prefrontal cortex, this area is responsible for impulse control and decision-making. At the same time, the limbic system, which governs emotions and reward-seeking behavior, becomes highly active. This imbalance is why adolescent dogs may exhibit erratic behavior, heightened reactivity, selective listening, etc.

Additionally, hormonal changes play a significant role in behavior shifts. As dogs reach sexual maturity, surges in testosterone (in males) and estrogen (in females) can lead to increased independence and risk-taking. This period is comparable to the “rebellious phase” seen in human teenagers, where the drive for autonomy clashes with learned behaviors and obedience.

How do you know when your puppy has entered adolescence?

• Increased Independence: A dog that once followed instructions and respected boundaries perfectly may start ignoring cues or testing those boundaries.

• Excess Energy & Hyperactivity: Adolescent dogs often have a surplus of energy, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, excessive barking, etc.

• Fear Periods: Many dogs experience a resurgence of fear responses during this stage, reacting strongly to things they previously ignored.

• Social & Environmental Sensitivity: Adolescent dogs may develop new anxieties or reactivity to other dogs, people, or unfamiliar environments.

• Stronger Prey Drive & Distractions: Recall and leash manners may suffer as the dog becomes more interested in exploring their surroundings.

Why So Many Dogs Get Rehomed During This Stage

Many first-time or unprepared owners find themselves overwhelmed by their dog’s behavior changes. A once well-behaved puppy may suddenly become difficult to manage, leading to frustration and, in some cases, surrender to shelters. This is why adolescent dogs make up a large portion of those rehomed, owners may feel they “got a bad dog” or they feel as though they don’t have enough time for their dog anymore when, in reality, their pet is simply going through a natural developmental phase.

How Can You Navigate This Stage Successfully?

The number one most important thing to remember is to stay consistent. Well, what does consistency even mean? Consistency is often misunderstood to mean strict, but this is not what we mean. When we say to be consistent, we mean to be very clear to your puppy where your “toxic line” sits and teach them not to cross it. It is also important to not give your puppy only one option, by giving them option A and option B we are forming a healthy relationship with them instead of being dictators. Dictatorships will make your teenager act out more, it’s important to build mutual respect.

Let’s put this into context: Your puppy is on the couch, licking you in the face. You like it for a second, but you decide you’ve had enough. You would then tell puppy “that’s enough thank you” to let them know you liked it, but don’t want it to continue. If they do not stop, then you would tell your puppy “stop licking me or you’re going to get off the couch.” In this scenario you have given puppy Option A, which is to stop licking you while still being allowed on the couch, and option B, which is to get off the couch. However, you have removed option C, which is licking your face. Continued licking will result in puppy getting kicked off the couch.

IMPORTANT note, you should never pull your dog or puppy away or off of something. Instead, you should use your body, using what we call “spatial pressure” to get them away or off of something. Spatial pressure in the couch scenario would mean to place your arm extended behind the body of your dog or puppy and slowly come towards them to encourage them to get off. Once they get off you would pull your arm back and say “yes”. If the puppy listens when you’ve asked them to stop, tell them “yes” as well.

To learn more helpful tips for navigating the adolescent stage in your puppy, please feel free to message us!