Adolescence in dogs
"He knew everything, and now he's forgotten it all!" Adolescence is a time of testing limits, growing independence and high energy. With patience and consistency, this stage becomes the foundation of a confident adulthood.
In het kort
- Temporary setbacks in learned cues are normal.
- Energy and independence rise, and so does the need for mental and physical activity.
- Socialisation and positive experiences should continue.
- Pulling on the lead and not coming when called often come to the fore.
- Discuss decisions such as neutering with your veterinarian in good time.
Adolescence lasts from about 6 to 18 months in most dogs, and can be longer in large breeds. The body starts to look adult, but the brain and behavior are still developing.
What is happening in this stage?
- Hormonal changes can affect behavior.
- Curiosity and independence increase; the dog wants to explore the world on its own.
- It may become wary again of some things it was comfortable with before.
- Energy levels often reach their peak.
What should you do differently?
- Keep training: Reinforce basic cues in short, fun sessions; if you see a setback, take a step back and make it easier.
- Lead training: Loose-lead walking is the most valuable investment of this stage.
- Mental activity: Sniffing games and food puzzles channel extra energy positively.
- Exercise: Increase it to suit age and breed; for large breeds, ask your vet about activities that strain the joints.
- Feeding: Agree the timing of the switch from puppy to adult food with your veterinarian.
What should you monitor?
- Body condition: growth slows in this stage and extra weight can start to build.
- Reactions to other dogs and people
- Chewing and destructive behavior (often a sign of boredom)
Expected behavior
Coming back slowly when called, pulling on the lead, jumping up and "selective hearing" are common. This isn't stubbornness but part of development. Rewarding the behavior you want gives lasting results, rather than punishment.
Reminders
- Preventive care schedule and vet check-ups
- Discussing neutering with your veterinarian
- Monthly weighing
The next stage
From about 18 months your dog moves into adulthood.
De leeftijdsgrenzen zijn bij benadering; verschillen binnen een soort (zoals grootte bij honden) kunnen de overgangen vervroegen of vertragen.
Deze inhoud is algemene informatie en vervangt geen onderzoek of diagnose door een dierenarts. Maak je je zorgen over de gezondheid van je dier, neem dan contact op met je dierenarts.