If you're a dog owner, you might have noticed some interesting changes in your furry companion as they transition from puppyhood to adulthood. As a dog trainer and behaviourist covering the north west I had to look into this properly for my courses and wishing I had known sooner I couldn't wait to share what I learned with you. Just like humans, dogs experience puberty, and during this time, both physical and behavioural changes occur. Let’s dive into what you can expect as your dog goes through this phase and how to best support them along the way.
When Does Puberty Start for Dogs?
Puberty in dogs generally starts between 6 and 18 months of age, with the average being around 11 months. While male dogs can technically fertilize females as young as 5 months, they don’t become fully fertile until they’ve undergone puberty. Female dogs can’t conceive until they have also reached sexual maturity, which happens during the same timeframe.
Physical Changes to Expect
During puberty, dogs undergo several physical changes. These include:
- Teeth development: Adult teeth replace their puppy teeth.
- Growth spurts: You may notice your dog shooting up in size quite quickly.
- Changes in coat texture and colour: Your dog’s fur may change in both texture and colour, with possible increased shedding.
- Appetite increase: Your dog will likely be hungrier than usual to fuel their rapid growth.
For males, secondary sexual characteristics include the dropping of the testes into the scrotum and increased hormone levels, while females will experience changes in their ovaries and begin their first heat cycle.
Behavioural Changes During Puberty
Behavioural changes are a major part of puberty for both male and female dogs. Some common behaviours to watch for include:
- Marking territory: Male dogs may start marking their space more frequently.
- Roaming and humping: These behaviours often shift from playful to sexually motivated.
- Confidence and aggression: Some dogs may grow more confident, while others could become aggressive, sometimes out of fear.
- Testing boundaries: Puberty often brings about a “teenage rebellion” where your dog may test boundaries and challenge training.
Female dogs can display similar behaviours, but the changes are typically more subtle compared to males. Both sexes may become less interested in cuddling and more inclined to interact with other dogs during this stage.
Puberty and Hormones
The surge in hormones during puberty drives most of these changes. For male dogs, testosterone levels double, while females experience fluctuations in oestrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone. These hormone changes not only affect their bodies but also their behaviour, contributing to things like the desire to roam or being more territorial.
Is Your Dog Acting Like a Teenager?
Believe it or not, your dog’s behaviour during puberty can be compared to that of a human teenager. Like adolescents, dogs struggle with emotional regulation, impulsiveness, and a lack of focus. You may find that your once well-behaved dog suddenly becomes more rebellious, ignoring cues or acting out. But don’t worry, this is a normal part of their development, and with patience, they will settle down.
How to Support Your Dog Through Puberty
Here are some tips to help you and your dog navigate puberty together:
- Reinforce training: Consistency is key during this time. Even if your dog starts ignoring previous training, reinforcing those cues will help them get back on track.
- Provide mental and physical stimulation: Puberty is a time of increased energy and curiosity. Keep your dog’s mind and body active with regular exercise and interactive toys.
- Socialisation: Allow your dog to safely interact with other dogs. This helps them learn appropriate social behaviours.
- Be patient: Remember that this phase won’t last forever! With proper training and guidance, your dog will grow into a well-adjusted adult.
The Impact of Neutering
If you’re considering neutering your dog, it’s important to understand how this can affect their hormonal and behavioural development. Neutering during puberty can stunt or prevent full hormonal maturation, potentially leading to issues like anxiety or fearfulness that might not have had the chance to resolve naturally. Do talk to a vet who is up to date with behaviour and decide together when the best time is for your dog.
Puberty can be a challenging time for dog owners, but by understanding the changes your dog is going through, you can better support them. Remember, these shifts in behaviour and energy are temporary, and with time, patience, and training, your dog will come out the other side as a more balanced and mature companion. Puberty is just a phase, and before you know it, your dog will have settled into their adult personality.
By staying informed and proactive, you’ll ensure a smoother transition and continue building a strong, trusting bond with your furry friend!
Maybe reach out to a dog trainer to help keep those training skills in place.
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