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"Navigating the Teenage Tornado"


Fun and Effective Training for Your Adolescent Dog

Imagine your teenage pup as a little fur tornado, swirling through your home, full of energy and curiosity. This is the time when they're testing boundaries and discovering their independence, much like human teenagers. But don’t worry – with the right training and a sprinkle of patience, this whirlwind phase can be transformed into a time of growth and deepened bond. Welcome to the world of canine adolescence!


Understanding Your Teenage Tornado

Adolescence in dogs typically occurs between 6 months and 2 years of age, a critical period for establishing lifelong behaviours. During this phase, you might notice your furry friend becoming more independent, testing boundaries, and exhibiting a sudden surge in energy. It's a time of both challenge and opportunity.


Typical Teenage Troubles

  1. Boundary Testing and Independence: Just like human teens, adolescent dogs begin to push limits. They might ignore commands they've previously mastered, exploring their independence.

  2. Boundless Energy and Destructive Behaviour: Expect your pup to have boundless energy, sometimes leading to chewing, digging, or other destructive actions if not properly channelled.

  3. Making Friends: This is a crucial time for your dog to learn how to interact appropriately with others. Socialisation helps prevent fear and aggression later in life.

  4. Distractions Galore: Adolescent dogs can be easily distracted. Training helps keep their attention on you, even in stimulating environments.

  5. Jumping Beans and Over-Excitement: Enthusiastic greetings can turn into a jumping frenzy. This behaviour, though common, needs to be managed to ensure it doesn’t become a habit.


Why Training is Essential

Training during adolescence is essential for several reasons:

  • Building a Strong Foundation: Establishing good behaviour early sets the stage for a well-mannered adult dog. Basic commands and manners should be reinforced consistently.

  • Strengthening Your Bond: Training isn’t just about obedience; it’s about building a relationship. Positive

  • reinforcement training, including games and choice-based training, enhances your bond.

  • Preventing Behavioural Issues: Addressing potential problems early on prevents them from becoming ingrained. Training helps curb unwanted behaviours like jumping up, chewing, and pulling on the leash.


Training and Socialisation: Let the Fun Begin

  1. Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and play to reward desired behaviours. This approach builds trust and encourages your dog to repeat good behaviour.

  2. Consistent Routine: Dogs thrive on consistency. Regular training super short sessions help reinforce preferred behaviours and make learning a part of daily life.

  3. Socialisation Opportunities: Enroll in group classes, arrange appropriate puppy play dates, and expose your dog to varied environments to give them positive encounters. This helps them become well-rounded and adaptable.

  4. Enrichment Activities: Keep your dog’s mind and body active with activities like scentwork, trick training, and dog sports. These not only burn off energy but also provide mental stimulation.


Enrichment Ideas to Keep Your Pup Happy

  1. Licki Mats: Spread some peanut butter or wet dog food on a licki mat and let your dog enjoy the calming activity of licking it clean.

  2. Long-Lasting Chews: Provide safe, long-lasting chews like bully sticks or deer antlers to satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts.

  3. Scatter Feeding: Turn mealtime into a game by scattering kibble around the yard or house, encouraging your dog to use their nose to find their food.

  4. Food Enrichment Toys: Invest in toys like Kongs or treat-dispensing puzzles to keep your dog engaged and mentally stimulated while they work for their food.


Training Techniques: Focus on Positive Alternatives

Instead of stopping unwanted behaviours, focus on teaching your dog what you’d rather they do. Dogs understand clear actions more easily than the absence of an action. Here are some examples:

  • Jumping Up: Train an alternative behaviour like sitting. When your dog approaches, ask for a sit and reward them for keeping all four paws on the ground. This teaches them that sitting gets them attention, not jumping up.

  • Over-Excitement: Encourage calm greetings by having your dog sit and wait before receiving attention. Use treats or toys to redirect their energy into more appropriate behaviours.


Dr. Sophia Yin emphasised, "Rather than trying to stop your dog from doing something, teach them what you’d like them to do instead. This approach builds positive behaviours and reduces frustration for both you and your dog."


Conclusion

Canine adolescence may come with its set of challenges, but with the right training and support, it’s also a time of tremendous growth and bonding. By investing time and effort into training now, you’re setting your dog up for a lifetime of good behaviour and a strong, trusting relationship with you.


"Pups To Teens" Classes

Our "Pups To Teens" classes are designed to help you and your adolescent dog navigate this exciting stage. We focus on creating strong foundations, building focus, and fostering a deep relationship through fun, engaging activities. Our training is based on positive reinforcement, games, and choice-based methods to ensure a happy, well-adjusted dog.


For more information and to enrol in our "Pups To Teens" classes, or find out about other classes on offer at Active Dogs please visit our website www.activedogs.co.nz or to enrol follow this link: Class Bookings


Let’s turn those teenage antics into opportunities for fun and learning!


Active Dogs NZ

Ohau, Levin, NI

021442018

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