Dogs don’t escape adolescence either: be prepared for these changes

The teenager years is challenging for dogs too! As an owner, you need to be prepared for many changes and tasks during this period. In the following article, we help you learn how to handle problems effectively.

Our four-legged friends’ adolescence is almost as complicated as humans’. Numerous hormonal changes take place in dogs’ bodies during adolescence, affecting your pet’s behavior. It’s worth preparing for this period in advance to know how to rein in the often unruly dog.

What changes can you expect during adolescence?

Adolescence typically begins around the age of eight months for dogs and can last until they are around two years old (though this varies individually, but it’s approximately within this timeframe). A teenage dog, in many ways, resembles a self-willed teenager who, while exploring the world, challenges the boundaries set by parents. It’s typical that the previously obedient companion seems to have forgotten everything they’ve learned.

Don’t be alarmed; this doesn’t mean that the previous efforts were in vain. It’s simply that curiosity and the desire for exploration are stronger than adherence to rules. This is also associated with stubbornness, which is also very typical during this period. A common aspect of adolescence is that your previously shadow-like companion suddenly doesn’t require as much close contact; instead, they embark on independent exploratory journeys.

How can you control the windy teenager dog?

1.) The basics

A common mistake is that owners tend to become overly confident because their little pet is so affectionate and obedient. Since puppies instinctively form attachments to their mother and then to their owner, don’t be misled by this, and don’t let them get away with everything even from a young age! Start teaching recall and commands like sit down!, stand up!, and lie down! early on.

As repetition is the foundation of lasting knowledge, don’t neglect practicing what has already been learned. It’s worthwhile to review regularly, and at least once a week, go through everything, even the well-known commands. During these sessions, don’t forget about praise and, if you use this method, rewards. Always choose treats appropriate for the dog’s age, especially considering chewability for puppies.

2.) Self-controll

Staying within the theme of training, besides teaching the basics, it is also crucial that your pet can exercise self-control. What do we mean by this? Commands like “leave it!” and “drop it!” help in developing self-control, which your pet can apply in other areas of life as well.

3.) Dogbox

A dogbox can be very useful in various life situations. This includes adolescence in a dog’s life, when it’s particularly important for your pet to have a calm place to retreat. Additionally, it can also be beneficial when you see that your energetic pet could use a little break. In such cases, they can calm down in the crate. However, it’s important to introduce its use in time, so the dog won’t be apprehensive about it.

4.) Secondary teething

Although many people believe that a dog’s teething is complete with the emergence of permanent teeth, there is a so-called secondary teething phase. This period is typically around 8-10 months of age. Adult teeth settle into their final positions in the jaw during this time. You can help prevent your dog from chewing on furniture by providing various chew toys to satisfy the urges triggered by this process.

5) Mental and physical fatigue

For your pet to be healthy both mentally and physically, it is essential to provide an adequate amount of exercise and mental stimulation. Particularly during adolescence, it is crucial to allow your lively companion to expend the excess energy and tension associated with their age.

Take walks, go on hikes, teach them tricks, engage in sports together, or attend dog-specific sporting events. The key is to ensure that the animal becomes physically and mentally tired while also enjoying the activities. It’s worth noting that these shared activities are also very beneficial for your health!

6.) Proper diet

Just as throughout your dog’s entire life, it is crucial during adolescence that they receive an appropriate amount of high-quality nutrition! Since adolescence involves very intense physical processes, and during this period, animals grow rapidly, they require a lot of energy, minerals, and vitamins. Consult with your veterinarian, who, considering your dog’s parameters – size, breed, lifestyle, health condition – will assist in creating the optimal menu.