Dit deel is nog niet in het Nederlands beschikbaar; je ziet voorlopig de versie in het Engels.
In het kort
- 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.
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.