Ah, the teenage years—not just for humans, but for dogs too! If your once-adorable puppy is suddenly acting a little… different, they might be stepping into their adolescent phase. It’s a normal, if occasionally exasperating, part of growing up. So, how can you tell your pup is trading their baby paws for the big leagues? Here are five tell-tale signs your dog is entering their teenage stage.

1. They’ve Developed Selective Hearing

Remember when they’d come bounding over the moment you called their name? Now, they suddenly seem deaf, especially when there’s something more exciting, like a squirrel or a rustling bush. This isn’t because they’ve forgotten their training—it’s their way of asserting independence.

Teenage dogs are infamous for their newfound “freedom streak.” It’s like when a teenager rolls their eyes at a parent’s instructions. They hear you; they just don’t feel like responding.

What to Do: Don’t give up on recall training. Keep it positive, consistent, and full of tasty rewards for those moments when they do listen.

2. They’re Testing Boundaries

Your polite, well-behaved pup has suddenly decided it’s time to challenge the house rules. Jumping on the furniture, nibbling on your shoes, or stealing food off the counter—all things they knew were off-limits—might become their new hobbies.

Teenage pups are curious and testing what they can get away with. It’s part of growing up and understanding their place in the family hierarchy.

What to Do: Reinforce boundaries with calm consistency. Reward the behaviour you want to see and redirect them when they start pushing limits.

3. Their Energy Levels Are Through the Roof

Teenage dogs are like toddlers on a sugar rush—they seem to have endless energy. Whether it’s zoomies around the house, random bursts of barking, or tugging you through the park, their stamina often peaks during this stage.

You might find that the activities that used to tire them out no longer do the trick. If left unchecked, this pent-up energy can lead to boredom and, inevitably, mischief.

What to Do: Increase their mental and physical stimulation. Longer walks, interactive toys, and even activities like agility training can help channel that teenage energy constructively.

4. They’re Suddenly Wary or Overconfident

One day your puppy loves every dog at the park, and the next, they’re barking at a leaf blowing in the wind. Teenage dogs often go through a “fear period” where they become nervous about things they were previously comfortable with. On the flip side, some may act overly bold, charging into new situations with gusto.

These mood swings can feel a little unpredictable, but they’re a natural part of development as your dog’s brain matures and processes the world differently.

What to Do: Approach new experiences with calm reassurance. Don’t force interactions if they’re nervous, but reward confidence when it shows naturally.

5. Hormonal Behaviours Emerge

If your dog hasn’t been spayed or neutered yet, teenage months can mean a surge in hormonal behaviour. Male dogs might start marking territory or showing interest in female dogs. Female dogs could go into their first season, which comes with its own behavioural quirks.

Even spayed or neutered dogs can experience some hormonal shifts that influence their mood and behaviour during this time.

What to Do: Keep a close eye on any new behaviours and speak to your vet about the best timing for spaying or neutering if you haven’t already.

Navigating the Teenage Phase

Raising a teenage dog is no walk in the park (well, technically, there are lots of walks in the park, but you get the point). It’s a time of growth, exploration, and, yes, a little frustration. But it’s also an opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Stay consistent, be patient, and remind yourself that this is just a phase. With the right guidance, your dog will come out the other side a well-rounded, loyal companion—and you’ll be proud of how far you’ve both come.

If you spot any of these signs, congratulations—you’ve got a teenage pup on your hands. Buckle up; it’s going to be a ride!

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