Puppy ‘Teenage’ Phase Explained: UK Research & Key Signs
Like human children, puppies go through various stages of physical and mental development, often in a linear way but varying in timing for each dog. Many owners recall phases of chewing, selective hearing, or nervousness in their pups—and some even notice a "stroppy teenager" temperament!
Recent UK research confirms this isn’t just anecdotal; puppies really do experience a teenaged phase associated with puberty. This phase includes behaviour parallels to human teens, driven by hormonal and brain development changes.
How was the puppy "teenaged" phase identified?
Studies led by the universities of Edinburgh, Newcastle, and Nottingham involved observing 69 puppies aged five and eight months, alongside owner questionnaires from 285 puppy owners. This mixed approach provided insight into behavioural changes during puberty.
Puppies typically enter adolescence around the onset of sexual maturity, which varies by size and breed: small dogs as early as four months, large breeds up to 12 months, but generally between 5-8 months.
How long does the teenaged phase last?
Spaying or neutering ends the teenaged phase by removing sex hormones that drive many behavioural changes. Typically, dogs aren’t neutered before puberty to allow natural development. For those not neutered, adolescence tends to end around one year of age, but large breeds may have a prolonged phase.
Why do puppies go through this teenaged phase?
This phase results from increased sex hormone production affecting emotions and physical development—sometimes even causing mild acne. The neurological development also plays a key role: the prefrontal cortex (which controls impulse and decision-making) matures slower than emotional brain regions, leading to impulsive and emotional behaviours.
Do all puppies go through this phase?
Nearly all puppies experience adolescence unless delayed by rare developmental factors. The intensity varies widely—some may show clear signs, others hardly noticeable behaviours.
Recognising teenaged puppy behaviours
Typical behaviours include reduced obedience to known commands, especially selectively ignoring their owners but responding better to others. Puppies may be more distracted, harder to train, and test boundaries. Impulsivity, attention span reduction, and exaggerated emotional reactions are common.
These traits correspond to findings from the largest UK longitudinal study, the Dogs Trust’s Generation Pup, showing behaviour peaks of barking, poor recall, and jumping up around 12 months. Scientific research published in the Royal Society journal in 2020 supports this with controlled studies demonstrating temporary declines in trainability in adolescent dogs.
When does the teenaged phase end?
Spaying and neutering usually mark the end of adolescence. If unaltered, the duration depends on breed and individual development, with large dogs taking longer.
How can owners manage the teenaged phase?
- Patience and understanding: Remember these behaviours are normal developmental stages, not deliberate naughtiness.
- Consistent training: Use positive reinforcement and maintain routines to support learning despite distractions.
- Manage impulses: Offer enough exercise and mental stimulation to reduce risky or hyperactive behaviours.
- Neutering advice: Consult your vet on appropriate timing to support health and behavioural benefits.
By understanding canine adolescence’s hormonal and neurological basis, owners can better navigate the phase with empathy and promote responsible pet ownership.
