BEHAVIORAL CHANGES

When dogs enter into adolescence, their bodies go through many physical and psychological changes. This is due to the fact that their bodies are becoming more mature, stronger, and bigger. Because of these changes, many new behaviors begin to develop, and owners should be prepared to deal with. Many of these new behaviors can be adapted and transformed into socially acceptable behavior. During this transition into adulthood, a dog's sexual nature also begins to develop. This, too, can bring about certain behaviors that you may not find too appealing, such as humping on legs or stuffed animals. While having your dog neutered will help to keep this behavior under control, it may not solve all other behavioral changes. For those, verbal correction and proper training can be used.

EXERCISE AND ACTIVITY

It's important that your dog gets sufficient exercise for his body. If possible, you may want to sign him up for another obedience class at this time to keep his mind active and exercised as well. Remember that at this stage, hormones rule. Your dog's physical and emotional needs may require that he stay as active and entertained as possible, otherwise you can pretty much rest assured that your dog will find something to do and that that something isn't always acceptable to you. Exercise, play, toys, playtime with other dogs and the like can all greatly help your dog at this time. If your dog's high energy level becomes a bit too much for you to keep up with, you can always arrange for someone else to help out, such as a dog walker.

Read more on dog adolescence.
Previous page on dog adolescence.