The adult dog stage
Adulthood is when your dog's character settles and the stage you'll share longest. The priorities are keeping an ideal weight, keeping body and mind active, and continuing preventive care.
En bref
- Maintaining ideal weight and body condition is the main goal of this stage.
- Regular exercise and mental activity support both behavior and health.
- Add dental care to your routine.
- Keep up preventive care and yearly check-ups.
- Discuss breed-specific tendencies with your veterinarian.
Most dogs are considered adults from about 18 months, and this stage lasts until around 7 years, depending on breed and size. Energy levels balance out, habits settle and the daily routine becomes clear.
What is happening in this stage?
- Growth is complete; energy needs are lower than in puppyhood.
- Personality and preferences become clear.
- Routines are a source of security for your dog.
What should you do differently?
- Feeding: A "complete and balanced" adult dog food; adjust portions to body condition rather than the label. Remember that treats count towards daily calories.
- Exercise: Regular walks, games and safe running areas suited to breed and individual.
- Mental activity: New tricks, sniffing games, food puzzles.
- Grooming: Brushing to suit the coat type, nail checks and dental care.
What should you monitor?
- Weight and body condition (monthly weighing is a good habit)
- Teeth and mouth
- Changes in mobility or enthusiasm for exercise
- Changes in behavior
Expected behavior
Adult dogs are usually calmer and know their daily routine well. Adult dogs that don't get enough to do can show boredom-related behavior.
Reminders
- Yearly (or as often as your vet recommends) check-ups and preventive care
- Monthly weighing and body condition checks
- A regular dental care routine
The next stage
From around 7 years (earlier in large breeds) your dog approaches its senior years.
Les tranches d'âge sont approximatives ; les différences au sein d'une espèce (comme la taille chez le chien) peuvent avancer ou retarder les transitions.
Ce contenu est fourni à titre d'information générale et ne remplace ni un examen vétérinaire ni un diagnostic. Si la santé de votre animal vous inquiète, contactez votre vétérinaire.