Understanding the Impact of Canine Adolescence on their Behaviour

Canine adolescence is a phase that many dog owners find challenging and confusing. During this period, dogs undergo significant physical, emotional, and behavioural changes that can affect their interactions with people and other animals. Understanding how adolescence impacts canine behaviour helps owners navigate this stage with patience and effective strategies, ultimately building a stronger bond with their pets.

What Is Canine Adolescence?

Canine adolescence typically begins around six months of age and can last until the dog is about two years old, depending on the breed and individual development. This stage is similar to human teenage years, where dogs transition from puppyhood to adulthood. It involves hormonal changes, growth spurts, and shifts in social and cognitive abilities.

During adolescence, dogs start to test boundaries and assert independence. This behaviour is natural but can be mistaken for disobedience or stubbornness. Recognizing this phase as a developmental stage helps owners respond with understanding rather than frustration.

Behavioural Changes During Adolescence

Several key behavioural changes occur during canine adolescence:

• Increased Energy and Playfulness

Adolescent dogs often have bursts of energy and may engage in rough play. This can include mouthing, jumping, and chasing, which might be overwhelming if not managed properly.

• Testing Limits

Dogs may challenge rules they previously followed, such as ignoring commands or exploring off-limits areas. This behaviour is part of learning social structure and self-control.

• Heightened Curiosity and Distractibility

New sights, sounds, and smells can easily distract adolescent dogs. Their attention span may shorten, making training sessions more challenging.

• Changes in Social Behaviour

Adolescents may become more assertive with other dogs or people. Some may show signs of fear or aggression as they navigate social hierarchies.

• Hormonal Influences

Intact dogs experience hormonal surges that can lead to marking territory, mounting, or roaming behaviours.

How Adolescence Affects Training and Obedience

Training during adolescence requires patience and consistency. Dogs at this stage may seem to forget commands or ignore instructions they once followed. This is not a sign of failure but a normal part of their development.

During this period, dogs are experiencing both a surge in hormones and rapid neurological development.

Male dogs are experiencing increasing levels of testosterone which can cause them to become territorial, to display mounting behaviour, and you may also see reactive behaviours start to show (lunging, growling, and barking at certain triggers and stimuli in their environment). On the other hand, female dogs are experiencing fluctuations of estrogen which impacts their mood and sensitivity.

In addition to this, dogs experience their second fear period between the age of 6 and 14 months. So what are fear periods?...Well, they are periods of development when dogs are more likely to perceive certain stimuli as threatening, in turn, increasing the risk of learning to be fearful of that stimuli (people, other dogs, etc...).

Tips for Effective Training

• Keep Training Sessions Short and Engaging

Use positive reinforcement with treats, praise, or play to maintain interest.

• Be Consistent with Rules

Everyone in the household should enforce the same rules to avoid confusion.

• Increase Mental and Physical Exercise

A tired dog is less likely to act out. Activities like puzzle toys, obedience drills, and regular walks help burn off excess energy.

• Avoid Punishment

Harsh corrections can damage trust and increase anxiety. Focus on redirecting unwanted behaviour.

Socialization Challenges and Opportunities

Adolescence is a critical time for social development. Dogs may become more cautious or reactive around unfamiliar dogs or people. Early socialization helps reduce fear and aggression later in life.

How to Support Social Skills

• Controlled Exposure

Introduce your dog to new environments and friendly dogs gradually.

• Observe Body Language

Watch for signs of stress like lip licking, yawning, or stiff posture, and intervene if needed.

• Enroll in Training Classes

Group classes provide structured socialization and professional guidance.

Common Behavioural Issues During Adolescence

Some behaviours become more pronounced during adolescence and may require extra attention:

• Chewing and Destructive Behaviour

Increased energy and teething can lead to chewing on furniture or belongings.

• Excessive Barking or Whining

Dogs may vocalise more to seek attention or express frustration.

• Escaping and Roaming

Hormonal drives can motivate dogs to explore beyond their yard.

• Aggression or Fearfulness

Some dogs develop aggression or anxiety, especially if socialization was limited.

Addressing these issues early with training, enrichment, and sometimes professional help prevents long-term problems.

Building a Strong Relationship Through Adolescence

Adolescence is a chance to deepen your connection with your dog. Understanding their changing needs and behaviours fosters empathy and effective communication.

Ways to Strengthen Your Bond

• Spend Quality Time Together

Play, train, and relax with your dog daily.

• Provide Structure and Routine

Predictability helps dogs feel secure.

• Celebrate Progress

Recognise small improvements in behaviour to stay motivated.

• Stay Patient and Positive

Remember that adolescence is temporary and part of growth.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog's behaviour becomes overwhelming or dangerous, consulting a professional trainer or behaviourist is wise. Early intervention can prevent escalation and improve outcomes.