Has your once eager, attentive puppy suddenly developed “selective hearing”? - You’re not alone.

Adolescence in dogs typically kicks in between 6–18 months, and it can feel like all your hard work has disappeared overnight. Recall weakens, distractions become irresistible, and boundaries are suddenly up for debate. It’s frustrating — but it’s completely normal.

What’s Actually Happening?

Adolescent dogs are going through major developmental changes:

• Increased independence

• Heightened interest in their environment

• Hormonal changes

• A growing desire to explore and make their own choices

In simple terms, the world has become far more exciting than you. 😮‍💨

That doesn’t mean your training has failed. It means your dog is growing up.

Common Signs of Adolescence

• Slower or inconsistent recall

• Pulling more on the lead

• Overexcitement around other dogs

• Testing boundaries at home

• “Forgetting” cues they previously knew well

Sound familiar?

How To Navigate This Stage Successfully

1. Go Back to Basics

Short, focused training sessions with high-value rewards rebuild reliability. Keep it achievable — set your dog up to win.

2. Lower Your Expectations in Busy Environments

If recall works in the garden but not at the park, the park may simply be too distracting right now. Build up gradually.

3. Reinforce Calm Behaviour

Not all training is about commands. Reward calm choices at home — settling, waiting patiently, disengaging from distractions.

4. Increase Structured Outlets

Sniff walks, brain games, and purposeful training sessions give adolescents a healthy way to use their growing confidence and energy.

5. Stay Consistent

Mixed messages slow progress. Clear boundaries and predictable responses help your dog feel secure.

The Good News

Adolescence is a phase — but how you handle it matters.

With consistency, patience, and the right guidance, this stage can actually strengthen your training and your relationship. Many of the most reliable adult dogs are the ones who were supported properly through adolescence. 🤎