Advice from Apex Vets on caring for a teenage puppy
April 14, 2020
It’s a well-documented fact that the teenage years are a difficult time – and this holds true for puppies as well as humans. Puberty in pups usually kicks in at about four months, along with their new teeth, and can last until they are 18 months.
This can be a difficult time for owners too, as puppies may become stubborn and unreactive, loud and obnoxious, highly energised and a general handful. But don’t despair, says our vet Glenn, it’s not forever and there are plenty of coping mechanisms, as you’ll see here.
If you still have questions don’t hesitate to contact us and the team at Denny will be happy to help. You can also download and print our free puppy care sheet.
Download and print free puppy care sheet
Here are a few suggestions on keeping your teenage puppy on the right tracks.
Make sure it gets plenty of exercise – if your puppy is bursting with energy, proper amounts of exercise and play will give it an outlet and keep it engaged.
Keep up the training – it may become harder work if your teenager is kicking back, but try carrying out all the commands it’s already learned in different environments and with different distractions to improve skill levels.
Make sure your puppy’s diet is appropriate – if your puppy is boisterous some foods will fuel this while others will help calm the behaviour. Give us a call on 01324 829 989 if you’d like to discuss diet further.
Male dogs may start to show more of an interest in females, so bear in mind the issue of neutering and discussing options with our vet Glenn.
Above all, be patient – these changes will be bewildering for your dog so it’ll need your reassurance.
If after downloading and printing our puppy care sheet you still have questions, please contact us discuss matters further?
If you have an appointment coming up or if your pup needs urgent attention, then please read out latest COVID-19 information on the current situation.
