Why Adolescent Dogs Forget Their Training and How to Manage It

Introduction

If your once well-mannered puppy has suddenly started ignoring commands, pulling on the lead, or acting as though they have never heard of recall, you are not alone. Many dog owners are surprised to find that adolescence can be one of the trickiest stages of raising a dog. The hard work you put into training during puppyhood may seem to vanish overnight. The good news is that this stage is both normal and temporary, and with the right approach, you can guide your dog through it successfully.

In this article, we will explore why adolescent dogs appear to forget their training, what is happening in their brains and bodies during this time, and how you can manage the stage with patience and consistency. By the end, you will feel more confident about helping your dog grow into a well-adjusted adult.

Understanding Canine Adolescence

Adolescence in dogs usually starts between six and nine months of age and can last until around two years, depending on the breed and individual dog. Larger breeds tend to mature more slowly, so their adolescent period may extend longer than smaller breeds.

This is a phase of physical growth, hormonal changes, and brain development. Just as teenagers can be moody and impulsive, adolescent dogs often struggle with self-control. Their ability to focus may dip, and they may test boundaries as they grow in confidence.

Why Dogs Seem to Forget Their Training

Brain Development

During adolescence, a dog’s brain undergoes major changes. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, is still developing. This makes it harder for them to resist distractions or remember what they previously learned under pressure.

Hormonal Surges

Hormonal changes also play a part, particularly in entire dogs who have not been neutered or spayed. Rising hormone levels can make dogs more distracted, excitable, and driven by instincts such as chasing or marking.

Testing Boundaries

Just like human teenagers, adolescent dogs may push limits. They may ignore commands not because they do not know them, but because they are trying out new behaviours and testing your response.

Fear Periods

Some dogs go through secondary fear periods in adolescence. This can cause them to suddenly become wary of things they were previously fine with, which may affect training sessions and daily walks.

How to Manage Training During Adolescence

Stay Patient and Consistent

It is tempting to think your dog is being stubborn or disobedient, but in reality, they are dealing with big internal changes. Keep training sessions short and consistent, and avoid punishment. Instead, reward the behaviours you want to see and manage situations where your dog might fail.

Keep Reinforcing the Basics

Even if your dog seems to have forgotten sit, stay, or recall, go back to practising these basics in calm, low-distraction environments. Gradually build up to more challenging situations again. Think of it as reminding your dog rather than starting from scratch.

Use Management Tools

During this stage, tools like long lines, harnesses, and baby gates can help prevent unwanted behaviours while keeping your dog safe. For example, a long line allows you to practise recall without the risk of your dog running off.

Increase Mental Stimulation

Adolescent dogs often have energy to burn, and not just physically. Puzzle feeders, scent games, and short training sessions can provide the mental stimulation they need. A tired mind is often calmer and more responsive.

Socialisation and Exposure

Do not stop exposing your dog to new experiences during adolescence. Controlled, positive exposure to people, dogs, and environments helps prevent fear and reactivity later on. Keep interactions safe and avoid overwhelming your dog.

Manage Expectations

It is important to remember that setbacks are normal. Your dog has not truly forgotten their training, even if it feels that way. What you are seeing is a temporary dip in focus, not a permanent loss of skills.

Common Training Struggles in Adolescence

Recall Problems

One of the biggest challenges is recall. Your dog may suddenly find squirrels, smells, or other dogs far more interesting than you. Go back to basics, practise recall on a long line, and make coming back to you rewarding.

Lead Pulling

With newfound confidence and energy, adolescent dogs often pull harder on the lead. Use positive reinforcement techniques and be consistent. If your dog pulls, do a u-turn and reward when the dog is back by your side.

Jumping Up

Excitement can lead to jumping up at people. Train an alternative behaviour, such as sitting to greet, and reward this consistently.

Selective Hearing

It may seem like your dog has gone deaf to your cues. Avoid repeating commands endlessly. Instead, set up situations where your dog is likely to succeed and reward quickly.

The Role of Exercise

Physical exercise is essential, but it must be appropriate for your dog’s age and breed. Over-exercising growing dogs can harm their joints, but under-exercising can lead to frustration and unwanted behaviours. A balance of daily walks, play, and training games works best.

Building Resilience and Calmness

Adolescence is a time to focus on teaching calmness as much as obedience. Encourage your dog to settle on a mat, practise impulse-control games, and reward quiet moments. Teaching your dog how to relax is just as valuable as teaching them to sit.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog’s behaviour feels overwhelming or if they develop problems such as aggression or severe anxiety, it is wise to seek help from a qualified trainer or behaviourist. Early support can make a huge difference and prevent issues from escalating. Please reach out to use if you need this extra support, we offer virtual consultations globally.

Conclusion

Adolescence can feel like a step backwards in your dog’s training, but it is simply a normal stage of development. Your dog has not really forgotten what they learned as a puppy. With patience, consistency, and the right mix of management and training, you will come out the other side with a calmer, more reliable adult dog. Remember, this stage will pass, and the effort you put in now will pay off in years of companionship.

If you would like a little extra guidance through this stage, our digital book on managing adolescence is currently on sale. It offers practical, step-by-step support to help you feel more confident and steady while your dog grows into adulthood.