Understanding Adolescent Dog Behavior

Adolescence in dogs is marked by significant behavioral changes, often beginning around six to twelve months of age, depending on the breed. During this period, dogs can exhibit a range of exaggerated behaviors, including heightened sensitivity and a desire to explore their environment, akin to human teenage behavior. This developmental stage may lead to a decline in recall and increased conflicts as dogs distance themselves from their owners, mirroring typical teenage tendencies to assert independence. Owners should recognize that while training may appear to falter, it is only a temporary phase, and with patience, the foundational training will resurface once adolescence passes.