Читать книгу Puppies - Amy Fernandez - Страница 16

Adolescence presents a multitude of challenges—not only for the puppy but also for the puppy owner. Owners generally expect puppies at this age to exhibit reliable house-training and adult demeanor. However, the fact that your adolescent puppy looks more like an adult dog does not automatically mean she is capable of thinking or behaving like one. In fact, her physical, emotional, and mental resources may take a nosedive.

During adolescence, even well-socialized puppies can experience some insecurity and instability. For example, some puppies may become suspicious of strangers or act uncharacteristically submissive in response to stress or reprimand. Some will become markedly more aggressive. Although training and reinforcement of desired behavior will not guarantee that adolescent behavior problems won’t arise, your efforts will certainly help to minimize such problems. At six months of age, puppies become eligible to compete in formal dog shows and performance events, which bring structured training routines and competitive aspirations.

Like their human counterparts, adolescent dogs, such as this shepherd, may exhibit behavioral problems. They may become insecure and more submissive—or more aggressive.