How to cope when your puppy becomes a difficult teenager

Like it or not, the metamorphosis from a cute tiny puppy into a gorgeous adult dog doesn’t happen in a blink of an eye. There is a huge period between those stages called puberty. During these rather tumultuous times, dogs can stop obeying, forget everything they previously knew, and begin showing character. Do you know what to expect and how to cope when your puppy becomes a difficult teenager?

Breaking stereotypes

If you blindly believe that only people experience difficult teenager syndrome, I am going to burst your bubble because puppies can easily outdo us. The puberty period for young tail-waggers begins at about six months.

This stage is easy to identify: your sweet, obedient puppy suddenly becomes headstrong and stubborn. Rather than obey, your dog may object when you give him commands. He also may talk back or try to exert his independence.  

If you haven’t neutered your dog, this is the time to do so. 

How to build relations with a teenage puppy?

Many pet parents mistakenly become overly strict with their teenage dogs thinking it’s necessary to maintain control. Instead, your puppy needs positive contact with the owner more than ever. Instead, monitor your dog’s mood and temperament. 

You don’t want to give your dog a free pass, but you should avoid being unnecessarily strict. Continue playing with your dog and continue socialization. Reward your dog’s good behavior.

Be ready for unpredictable actions. For instance, the puppy who used to go for you on his heels previously now may not even respond to your call. 

A dire threat 

During your puppy’s puberty period or time as a difficult teenager, your puppy may experience an irresistible desire to gnaw on furniture, shoes, or other objects. This is different from chewing during teething. At this stage, your dog should have lost all of his baby teeth. 

To help your puppy cope and protect your property, give him toys he can safely chew on like Nylabone, Kong,  or rope toys.

Secondly, if possible, try to limit the time you leave your puppy unsupervised. If you can’t watch your dog, consider using a crate or playpen to keep him confined so he can’t get into trouble. 

Emotions

During this period, your dog’s psyche is still developing. When possible, keep your dog calm.

Try to reduce your dog’s stress and anxiety by understanding what triggers those emotions.

Keep introducing your dog to new situations and people to help him develop courage.

Fights during the puberty

During the difficult teenager period, relationships with other dogs can become tense. Male puppies often confront each other or adult dogs.

Sterilization will help reduce excess testosterone. You also can encourage good behavior by praising and rewarding your dog for positive interactions with other dogs.

Growth and development during puberty

Different dog breeds grow and mature at different rates. In general, the larger the breed, the more time it takes to mature and reach its full size. 

It’s crucial to make sure your dog gets the nutrients he needs for proper bone development. Some giant breeds can take up to 18 months to reach their full size while small breeds can reach their adult size in six to eight months. 

Maturity

Early maturity typically lasts from eight to 18 months. This is a great time for all dogs: they are still young and full of strength and energy but no longer exhibit difficult puppy behaviors.  

The main thing to remember during the difficult teenager period is your puppy needs love and understanding, then any hurdle will be a piece of cake!

Carmella Andersson works as a copywriter for Write My Resume. It gives her an opportunity to improve her critical and creative thinking skills. 

Is it better to have two dogs?