LIFE SKILLS FOR YOUR ADOLESCENT
Between 20 weeks and approximately 3 years of age.
5 session foundation course - 45 minutes each session
inclusive of attendance of one of our information evenings
Adolescence can be a difficult time for both owner and dog. During this period in their development, dogs start to explore their environment, testing the boundaries and generally acting like many human teenagers do. If restricted, adolescents may become challenging due to their desire to explore.
The majority of dogs sent to rescue shelters or put to sleep between the age of 6 months to 3 years are going through this adolescent phase, but, with knowledge and understanding, owners can come through this testing period of their dog’s life actually enjoying the challenges their dog presents.
There are a many physical and mental changes within your dog at this time and which may lead to a variety of stress prompted symptoms such as mounting, nipping, chewing or energy bursts. These actions can often appear in response to excitement, over stimulation, excessive exercise or too many demands being placed upon the dog. If owners have knowledge, are prepared and know how to react, difficult behaviour can be minimised.
During the course, we teach you how to cope with the demands of adolescence by helping you how to recognise what is going on, teaching you how to react and to understand the appropriate attitudes to adopt to avoid an escalation of the behaviour. It is not unusual for adolescent dogs to pull on lead and be less likely to come when called, but we can help you understand why as well as show you techniques to help deal with this.
Discussion of the dog’s needs and their impact on the family is ongoing throughout the course and we will work in partnership with you to address any issues you may have.