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Puberty in dogs has many similarities to puberty in teenagers, because a dog’s body also undergoes changes. In this article, we’ll explain the best ways to handle puberty.
Puberty in Dogs—Here Are the Signs
We’re familiar with it in humans, but dogs also go through puberty. Essentially, it’s the same process—a hormonal shift takes place that affects their behavior. The topic of dog training also plays a major role here. Even though a dog returns a great deal of the care it receives, puberty can be a stressful time for both the dog and you.
- The behavior of dogs and humans is actually quite similar. In dogs, puberty manifests as mood swings, erratic behavior, or “I-don’t-feel-like-it” phases. How pronounced these traits are depends on the animal itself. Dogs often develop pronounced hunting behavior during puberty. They’ll chase all sorts of things, whether the owner likes it or not.
- Rebellious behavior isn’t limited to this—it manifests in other ways as well. The dog may start to expand its territory and even mark new territory inside the home. Much to the owner’s chagrin, of course. Added to this is a more pronounced interest in the opposite sex.
- This can be driven by sexual instinct or simply an assertion of dominance. If a dog mounts another dog of the same sex, it usually does so to demonstrate its superiority.
- Since a dog’s life is shorter than a human’s, puberty also lasts for a shorter time and arrives sooner. Puberty normally lasts one and a half to two years and usually begins earlier in smaller dogs than in larger ones.
How to Deal with Your Dog During Adolescence
Of course, it can be difficult to keep that little rebel in check once he really gets going and starts testing his limits. That’s why you should take the following advice to heart so your dog doesn’t walk all over you:
- The first thing to keep in mind—a dog going through adolescence needs a lot of patience and love. Due to hormonal changes, he sometimes doesn’t even know what’s going on with him, which is why he needs an owner who loves him and is patient.
- Before puberty, you’re the “leader,” and you remain so during puberty as well. Just like with a teenager, however, your dog may start testing its limits. Stay firm, keep the reins in your hands, but don’t constantly give it too much attention. The more you scold it, the more it feels validated and will keep doing it.
- Be patient. Some dogs go through a defiant phase and stop responding when you call them or no longer obey commands. In this case, you should give him more attention. If you can get your dog excited about learning, you can shorten this phase. This includes learning new commands or simply reviewing commands he’s already learned.
- Other dogs, on the other hand, need protection—often even from themselves. They are risk-takers and put themselves in danger without realizing the consequences. Always keep a close eye on your dog and keep him away from potential sources of danger. One option is to keep him on a short leash if he’s looking to pick a fight with other dogs.
