Adolescent Dog Behavior Problems: Are You Handling Them All Wrong?

Discover expert tips for managing adolescent dog behavior issues. Learn how to guide your pup.

Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash

Adolescent Dog Behavior Problems: Hi there, struggling with your dog’s teenage phase? You’re not alone!

When I first faced my own dog Lucy’s adolescent antics, I was just as frustrated as you might be right now. One day she was obedient and sweet, the next, she acted like she couldn’t hear a word I said — especially if there was something more interesting around.

But this phase, challenging as it is, is also an opportunity. It’s a time when our dogs are figuring out the world, just like teenagers do. And just like with human teens, how we handle these years can shape the adult they become.

The teenage phase is tough, but it’s crucial. It’s the time to set boundaries, reinforce training, and establish the habits that will guide your dog into adulthood. This period isn’t just about surviving their antics — it’s about teaching them, understanding them, and setting them up for a lifetime of good behavior.

In this article, we’ll cover the most common adolescent dog behavior problems and offer practical advice for managing them. We’ll explore real-life stories, share actionable tips, and give you the tools to guide your dog through this challenging phase. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan for how to turn your wild teenager into a well-behaved adult.

Key Takeaways:

• Consistency is crucial: Reinforce basic commands and be patient.
• Physical and mental stimulation: Keep your dog engaged to prevent boredom and bad behavior.
• Socialization continues: Introduce your dog to new experiences to reduce reactivity and fear.
• Seek help if needed: Professional trainers can provide tailored advice for serious behavior problems.
• Routine matters: A structured day can help your dog feel secure and reduce anxiety.

Struggling with your dog’s behavior? Check out professional dog trainers near you and take control today.

Adolescent Dog Behavior Problems: Understanding and Managing the Teenage Phase

Adolescence in dogs, typically occurring between 6 months to 2 years of age, can be a challenging time for both the dog and the owner. During this phase, dogs may exhibit various behavior problems that can be frustrating if not properly managed. Understanding these behaviors and implementing effective strategies is key to guiding your dog through this developmental stage.

Common Behavior Problems During Adolescence

1. Increased Independence and Selective Listening: As dogs enter adolescence, they may begin to test boundaries and assert their independence. This can result in them ignoring commands or selectively choosing when to listen, especially in distracting environments.
2. Chewing and Destructive Behavior: Adolescent dogs often chew on furniture, shoes, or other household items. This is partly due to teething but also because they are exploring their environment and relieving boredom or anxiety.
3. Jumping and Hyperactivity: Increased energy levels can lead to hyperactivity, with dogs jumping up on people or furniture, running around uncontrollably, or having difficulty settling down.
4. Aggression or Reactivity: Some adolescent dogs may exhibit signs of aggression or reactivity, especially if they are not properly socialized. This can manifest as growling, barking, or lunging at other dogs, people, or unfamiliar stimuli.
5. Resource Guarding: Dogs in this age group may begin to guard food, toys, or spaces more aggressively. This behavior is often driven by insecurity and can escalate if not addressed early.
6. Separation Anxiety: Adolescent dogs may develop or continue to experience separation anxiety, leading to destructive behavior when left alone, excessive barking, or attempts to escape.

Managing Adolescent Behavior Problems

1. Consistent Training and Reinforcement: Continue regular training sessions to reinforce commands and good behavior. Consistency is crucial during this phase to help your dog understand what is expected of them.
2. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Activities like puzzle toys, obedience training, and regular walks can help channel their energy positively.
3. Socialization: Continue socializing your dog with other dogs, people, and different environments. Positive experiences during adolescence can prevent or reduce reactivity and aggression.
4. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries regarding what is and isn’t allowed. For example, use crates or baby gates to manage their access to certain areas and provide a safe space for them to retreat.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for good behavior with treats, praise, or play. Positive reinforcement helps build a strong bond and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.
6. Seek Professional Help: If behavior problems become unmanageable or dangerous, seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

1. Adolescent Dog Independence: The Struggle with Selective Listening

Has your dog suddenly developed a case of selective hearing? You know, the kind where they only hear you when you’re calling them to dinner, but seem utterly deaf when you’re asking them to stop chewing the couch? This is one of the most common challenges during adolescence, and it can be incredibly frustrating.

When my own dog, Lucy, hit her teenage years, it was like she’d forgotten everything she ever learned. Simple commands like “sit” or “stay” went out the window, especially when there was something more interesting nearby — like a squirrel or a passing car. The key to getting through this was consistent training and positive reinforcement. Every time Lucy listened, she got a treat or praise, and slowly but surely, the selective hearing became less of an issue.

Training Tip: Use high-value treats and practice commands in a variety of environments. Start in a quiet, distraction-free area, and gradually move to more challenging settings like the park. This helps reinforce the idea that the rules apply everywhere, not just at home.

2. The Chewing Conundrum: Saving Your Belongings

Chewing is another biggie during this stage. If your dog is suddenly interested in gnawing on everything from your shoes to the dining room table, it’s likely because they’re dealing with the discomfort of growing adult teeth, combined with the natural urge to explore their environment.

I had a client with a young Beagle named Sammy, who was a professional chewer. Nothing was safe — couches, shoes, even the wooden legs of the coffee table. We tackled this by introducing appropriate chewing toys like durable rubber toys and puzzle feeders, which kept Sammy busy and redirected his chewing energy to safe items.

Quick Tip: Make sure your dog has plenty of chew toys available. Rotate them regularly to keep things interesting. If your dog starts chewing on something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to an appropriate toy and praise them when they chew on it instead.

3. Hyperactivity and Jumping: Channeling Boundless Energy

Adolescent dogs have energy to burn, and if that energy isn’t properly channeled, it can lead to hyperactive behaviors like jumping on guests, excessive barking, and zooming around the house. These behaviors can be annoying, but they’re also a sign that your dog needs more exercise and mental stimulation.

Max, a Golden Retriever I worked with, was a ball of energy. He loved to jump on people — whether they wanted it or not. His owner was embarrassed and didn’t know how to stop it. We started by increasing Max’s exercise with longer walks and interactive games like fetch and tug-of-war. But we didn’t stop there. We also focused on teaching him the “off” command, rewarding him every time he kept all four paws on the ground when greeting people.

Exercise Tip: Physical activity is crucial, but don’t forget about mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, scent work, and training games can help tire out your dog’s mind, which is just as important as physical exercise.

4. Aggression and Reactivity: Navigating Challenging Behaviors

Some dogs become more reactive or even aggressive during adolescence, a change that can be scary for owners. This can be due to hormonal changes, fear, or simply not knowing how to behave in certain situations. It’s essential to address these behaviors early, before they escalate.

Rocky, a German Shepherd, started showing aggressive behavior toward other dogs during his adolescent phase. His owner was worried and didn’t know how to handle it. We worked on gradual socialization — introducing Rocky to other dogs in controlled settings and rewarding calm behavior. Over time, Rocky learned to stay calm and controlled around other dogs.

Socialization Tip: Continue socializing your adolescent dog, but do so gradually. Avoid overwhelming situations and always reward calm, non-reactive behavior. If aggression becomes a significant issue, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

5. Resource Guarding: Preventing Problems Before They Start

Resource guarding is when a dog becomes protective of their food, toys, or even their favorite spot on the couch. This behavior can be a natural response to feeling insecure, but it can lead to problems if not addressed.

My dog, Bella, started guarding her food bowl during her adolescent phase. It started with a growl here and there, but I knew it could become more serious if left unchecked. We worked on teaching Bella the “leave it” and “drop it” commands, rewarding her every time she willingly let go of a guarded item. This helped reduce her guarding behavior and taught her that she didn’t need to protect her resources.

Pro Tip: If your dog shows signs of resource guarding, start working on it right away. Teach them that giving up their prized possessions will result in something even better — a treat, a toy, or lots of praise.

6. Separation Anxiety: Coping with Being Alone

Some adolescent dogs struggle with being left alone, leading to separation anxiety. This can manifest in destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or attempts to escape when they’re left by themselves.

Luna, a Border Collie mix, had severe separation anxiety. Her owner couldn’t leave the house without Luna barking nonstop and tearing up the furniture. We started by desensitizing Luna to her owner’s departures — starting with short absences and gradually increasing the time. We also provided Luna with toys and puzzles that kept her busy while her owner was away, reducing her anxiety and destructive behavior.

Separation Anxiety Tip: Start by leaving your dog alone for just a few minutes, then gradually increase the time. Make sure they have something engaging to do while you’re gone, like a treat-filled puzzle toy. Over time, your dog will learn that being alone isn’t so bad.

7. The Importance of Consistency and Positive Reinforcement

Consistency is crucial during your dog’s adolescent phase. It can be tempting to let things slide when you’re tired or frustrated, but this is the time to stick to your training routine. Adolescent dogs need to know what’s expected of them, and they need to be consistently rewarded for good behavior.

Positive reinforcement is your best friend. Whether it’s treats, praise, or playtime, rewarding your dog for good behavior will encourage them to keep it up. Avoid punishment, as it can lead to fear and make behavior problems worse.

Pro Tip: Keep training sessions short and sweet. Adolescent dogs have short attention spans, so it’s better to do several brief sessions throughout the day rather than one long one. And always end on a positive note — your dog should associate training with fun and rewards.

8. Establishing Boundaries: Teaching Your Dog What’s Off-Limits

Adolescent dogs are notorious for testing boundaries. Whether it’s jumping on the couch, stealing food from the counter, or barking at every passing car, they’re trying to figure out what they can get away with. It’s up to you to set clear boundaries and enforce them consistently.

Rex, a young German Shepherd, loved to jump on the furniture. At first, his owner allowed it, thinking it was cute. But as Rex grew, it became a problem — especially when guests came over. We worked on teaching Rex that the furniture was off-limits by using consistent commands and providing him with a comfortable dog bed as an alternative. Over time, Rex learned that his bed was the place to be, and the furniture was for humans only.

Quick Tip: If your dog is testing boundaries, make sure everyone in the household is on the same page. Consistency is key — if one person allows the dog on the couch and another doesn’t, your dog will be confused and more likely to keep testing the rules.

9. The Power of Socialization: Shaping Your Dog’s Behavior

Socialization isn’t just for puppies — it’s a lifelong process. During adolescence, it’s especially important to continue exposing your dog to new experiences, people, and animals. This helps prevent fear-based behaviors and aggression and promotes a well-rounded, confident dog.

Sasha, my own dog, was a bit shy during her teenage phase. I made it a point to take her to different places — dog-friendly cafes, parks, and even the occasional pet store. Each outing was a new experience, and over time, Sasha became more confident and less fearful of new situations.

Socialization Tip: Make sure these experiences are positive. Carry treats and reward your dog for calm behavior. If your dog seems overwhelmed, take a step back and try a quieter environment first, gradually working up to busier places.

10. Mental Stimulation: Keeping Your Dog’s Brain Busy

Adolescent dogs need more than just physical exercise — they need mental stimulation too. Without it, they can become bored and start engaging in destructive behaviors. This is where puzzle toys, training games, and interactive activities come in.

Incorporate mental exercises into your daily routine. For example, use a puzzle feeder during mealtime toAdolescent dogs need more than just physical exercise — they need mental stimulation too. Without it, they can become bored and start engaging in destructive behaviors. This is where puzzle toys, training games, and interactive activities come in.

Incorporate mental exercises into your daily routine. For example, use a puzzle feeder during mealtime to engage your dog’s brain while they eat. This not only slows down their eating but also satisfies their instinct to forage and work for food. It’s a great way to keep their mind busy and prevent boredom.

A Border Collie I worked with, named Scout, was particularly clever and needed constant mental challenges. When left to her own devices, Scout would find her own “games” — like figuring out how to open doors or jump onto the kitchen counter. To keep her engaged, we introduced a variety of puzzle toys and started daily scent-tracking games. Not only did this satisfy Scout’s need for mental stimulation, but it also curbed her more destructive tendencies.

Pro Tip: Rotate your dog’s toys regularly to keep things fresh and exciting. A toy that’s been hidden away for a week can seem new and intriguing when you bring it back out.

11. Building a Structured Routine: Creating a Sense of Security

Dogs thrive on routine. A consistent daily schedule helps your adolescent dog know what to expect and reduces anxiety. Regular feeding times, walks, play sessions, and training create a predictable structure that helps your dog feel secure and understand what’s expected of them.

Start your day with a walk to burn off some of that early morning energy, followed by a short training session. Incorporate play and mental stimulation throughout the day, and end with another walk in the evening. This not only tires out your dog but also reinforces the structure that helps them feel secure.

With my own dog, Charlie, having a consistent routine made all the difference during his teenage phase. We started every morning with a brisk walk, followed by a little training practice. Over time, Charlie learned that after our walk and training, it was time to settle down while I worked. This routine helped him understand when it was time to play and when it was time to relax.

12. Handling Regression in Training: Staying Patient

During adolescence, you might notice your dog regressing in their training. Suddenly, commands they used to follow flawlessly are ignored, and behaviors you thought were mastered start slipping. This regression is normal — adolescent dogs are distracted by their new independence, and it’s easy for them to “forget” what they’ve learned.

Don’t be discouraged by this regression. It’s a temporary phase, and with patience, you can reinforce their training. Go back to basics if needed — revisit simple commands and reward your dog for following them. The key is to stay consistent and not let frustration get the best of you.

When Lucy, my dog, went through this phase, it was like she had forgotten everything we’d worked on. Rather than getting frustrated, we revisited the basics. Short, positive training sessions helped her regain focus, and within a few weeks, she was back on track.

13. The Importance of Managing Expectations: It’s a Phase

It’s important to remember that the challenges of adolescence are just a phase. Your dog isn’t deliberately trying to make your life difficult — they’re simply growing and testing their boundaries. It can be a frustrating time, but with patience and consistent training, you’ll come out the other side with a well-behaved, happy adult dog.

When I work with clients, I often remind them that adolescence doesn’t last forever. Yes, it’s challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to solidify your bond with your dog and establish the groundwork for their adult behavior. Celebrate the small victories, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Your hard work will pay off.

Encouraging Tip: Whenever you feel overwhelmed, take a step back and remind yourself that this is just a phase. Your dog is learning, growing, and becoming the amazing companion you’ve always wanted. Stay positive, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it.

14. Seeking Professional Help: When to Call in the Experts

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, adolescent behavior can become overwhelming. If your dog’s behavior is dangerous or highly disruptive, it’s important to seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. These experts can provide tailored advice and training techniques to address the specific issues you’re facing.

I once worked with a couple who had a Pit Bull mix named Rosie. Rosie started showing aggressive tendencies during her teenage phase, and her owners were at their wit’s end. They loved her but were worried about her behavior. We brought in a behaviorist who specialized in aggression, and through targeted training and environmental management, Rosie’s behavior improved significantly. The owners were relieved, and Rosie stayed with the family she loved.

Final Thought: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that help is available. A professional can offer insights and strategies that you might not have considered, helping you and your dog navigate this challenging phase successfully.

Need help managing your adolescent dog? Contact a professional dog trainer today and take the first step toward a calmer, happier life with your furry friend.

Conclusion:

Adolescent Dog Behavior Problems can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can navigate this phase successfully.

I remember when my client’s dog, Rocky, started showing aggressive tendencies. His owners were on the verge of giving up, but with patience, consistency, and professional help, they turned things around. Rocky went from being a handful to a well-mannered companion.

The teenage phase is your chance to mold your dog’s future. Whether it’s reinforcing training, introducing new challenges, or seeking help when needed, every step you take now will pay off later. The key is to stay positive, be patient, and remember that this is just a phase — one that will pass with your guidance.

Ready to start your training journey? Find a local trainer today and make the most of your dog’s teenage years.

People Also Ask:

Q: Why is my adolescent dog suddenly ignoring commands?

Adolescent dogs often test boundaries as they explore their independence. This phase is normal, but consistent training and positive reinforcement can help get their behavior back on track.

Q: How do I stop my teenage dog from chewing on everything?

Provide appropriate chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep your dog interested. Redirect your dog when they start chewing on something inappropriate and reward them for using the correct items.

Q: Can adolescent dogs become aggressive?

Yes, some dogs may show increased reactivity or aggression during adolescence due to hormonal changes or fear. Early intervention with socialization and training can help mitigate these behaviors.

Q: What are some signs of separation anxiety in adolescent dogs?

Signs include destructive behavior, excessive barking, and attempts to escape when left alone. Gradual desensitization and providing engaging toys can help reduce anxiety.

Q: How important is routine for adolescent dogs?

Routine is very important for adolescent dogs as it provides a sense of security. A consistent schedule for feeding, walking, and training helps reduce anxiety and manage behavior.

Glossary Terms:

1. Adolescent Dog: A dog typically between 6 months and 2 years old, undergoing physical and behavioral changes.
2. Selective Hearing: A common behavior in adolescent dogs where they ignore commands, often due to distraction or testing boundaries.
3. Resource Guarding: When a dog becomes protective over food, toys, or spaces, often during adolescence.
4. Separation Anxiety: A condition where a dog exhibits distress and destructive behavior when left alone.
5. Positive Reinforcement: A training method where desirable behaviors are rewarded to encourage repetition.

Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. It contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase products through my recommendations.