Adolescence in Dogs: Significance and Taxonomic Classification

What does adolescence mean in dogs?

Adolescence in dogs refers to the transitional phase between puppyhood and adulthood, during which physical, hormonal, and neurological maturation occur simultaneously. For most dogs, this phase begins between six and nine months of age and can last until the dog is two or three years old, depending on the breed and size. Small breeds enter this phase earlier and complete it sooner. Large and giant breeds often take 24 to 36 months.

Commonly referred to as "puberty" or "the rebellious phase." The term "adolescence" is more technically precise, as it encompasses not only hormonal changes but also cognitive and emotional restructuring. Characteristic features include reduced obedience, fluctuating frustration tolerance, and increased reactivity to environmental stimuli.

Background and Academic Context

Asher et al. (2020) from the University of Newcastle demonstrated in a prospective cohort study that dogs in the adolescent phase—around eight months of age—respond significantly less well to “sit” commands from their primary caregiver than they do two months earlier or two months later. This phenomenon was particularly pronounced in response to the primary caregiver and less so in response to strangers. The authors discuss this as a parallel to adolescent mammals and humans.

Neurologically, the canine brain undergoes restructuring processes: synaptic pruning, myelination, and the maturation of prefrontal structures proceed unevenly. Hormonal changes include rising levels of sex hormones, shifts in HPA axis tone, and fluctuations in stress reactivity. Research on stress physiology (Beerda et al. 1998; Mills et al. 2019) shows that adolescent dogs can exhibit stronger cortisol responses than adult dogs.

Vitomalia-Position

At Vitomalia, we view adolescence in dogs as a normal stage of development, not as a phase of defiance or a “test of dominance.” We recommend more relationship-building, more guidance, and less pressure. We reject the approaches that often accompany this phase—such as a stricter hand, jerky corrections, or harsher punishment signals—because “he needs to understand this now.”

Our stance is clear: Anyone who uses harsh methods during adolescence risks causing lasting damage to the bond, because the dog’s brain is in a highly sensitive learning phase at this time. Those who use patience, structure, and positive reinforcement build the adult bond during this phase, which prevents problems later on.

When does adolescence become relevant?

Specific everyday situations in which adolescence becomes apparent:

• The previously reliable recall breaks down, especially when distracted by other dogs or wildlife.
• The dog starts to pull on the leash, testing its freedom of movement.
• Encounters that used to be relaxed are becoming more confrontational—some dogs are becoming reactive.
• Sleep-wake cycles and frustration tolerance are unstable.
• Hormonal fluctuations lead to unpredictable periods.

Trade-off: Adolescence is not a phase in which training standards should be relaxed. Nor is it a phase in which training should become more intense. The answer lies in adaptation, not in escalation.

Practical application

1. Adjust your expectations: Accept that your performance varies from day to day. Make your training sessions shorter and reward yourself more often.
2. Strengthen management: Use Long Leash in risky situations instead of free-range tests. Keep a safe distance from triggers.
3. Prioritize sleep: 16–20 hours of rest. Fatigue increases impulsive behavior.
4. Filter interactions: Calm, adult dogs are valuable, while groups of highly active young dogs are often counterproductive.
5. Building Relationships Through Drill: More Collaboration, Less "You Have to Be Able to Do This Now."
6. If the condition worsens, consult a veterinarian: pain or hormonal imbalances can appear to be disobedience.

Common Mistakes and Myths

• "My dog is testing his position." Wrong. This assumption stems from the outdated dominance theory (Bradshaw et al. 2009). Adolescent dogs are exploring their environment, not testing their rank.
• "Now he has to learn that I'm the boss." According to Vieira de Castro et al. (2020), harsher methods increase stress and hinder learning.
• "Castration resolves puberty-related issues." Early castration is a topic of debate. Hart et al. (2020) highlight risks related to orthopedic and behavioral development. There is no blanket recommendation.
• "The adolescent dog has forgotten everything." He hasn't forgotten anything. The training content is still there; it's just less accessible.

State of the art in 2026

Research on canine adolescence is still in its infancy. Asher et al. (2020) is considered a seminal study. Subsequent studies have examined gender differences, the influence of early experiences, and behavioral issues that become clinically apparent during this phase. The evidence against the use of harsh methods during adolescence is well-supported by broader learning theory. Data on the duration of breed-related differences is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does adolescence begin in dogs?

For most dogs, between six and nine months of age. Smaller breeds earlier, giant breeds later.

How long does this phase last?

Three to 18 months, depending on the breed's size and individual development. Giant breeds are often not fully grown until they are three years old.

Should I try new things during adolescence?

Yes, but in small steps and with frequent rewards. This is a learning phase, just a more sensitive one.

Does neutering during puberty help?

Generally, no. Until physical maturation is complete, there are orthopedic and behavioral risks. It is important for a veterinarian to evaluate each case individually.

Related terms

• puppy
• Socialization
• Reactivity
• Recall
• Frustration tolerance
• Neutering
• Binding

Sources and further reading

1. Asher, L., England, G. C. W., Sommerville, R., & Harvey, N. D. (2020). Teenage dogs? Evidence for adolescent-phase conflict behaviour and an association between attachment to humans and pubertal timing in the domestic dog. Biology Letters, 16(5), 20200097.
2. Bradshaw, J. W. S., Blackwell, E. J., & Casey, R. A. (2009). Dominance in domestic dogs – useful construct or bad habit? Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 4(3), 135–144.
3. Vieira de Castro, A. C., Fuchs, D., Morello, G. M., Pastur, S., de Sousa, L., & Olsson, I. A. S. (2020). Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare. PLOS ONE, 15(12), e0225023.
4. Hart, B. L., Hart, L. A., Thigpen, A. P., & Willits, N. H. (2020). Assisting decision-making on age of neutering for 35 breeds of dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 388.
5. Mills, D. S., Demontigny-Bédard, I., Gruen, M., et al. (2019). Pain and Problem Behavior in Cats and Dogs. Animals, 10(2), 318.