Puppy Blog

Today Finn is 9 months old. He is still regarded as a puppy, but his behavior suggests "full blown teenager" along with all the attitude and arrogance that goes with this. Doggy brains, similarly to human brains, undergo a restructuring phase during adolescence. At the 6 month stage the puppy will change from the clingy and compliant wee cutie and become a lanky, independent, energetic dog. At 6 months of age, most dogs are also sexually developed, and females can be expected to come into season around the 9 month point. Male dogs experience a surge of testosterone and their behaviors can change dramatically.

Finn discovered puberty at 6 months. He discovered his "5th appendage" and the related joys. I had a very amusing conversation with the Vet about bringing forward his neutering appointment.....something about traumatized sofa cushions. Use your imagination here! In general, neutering a young dog can calm down hormone-driven behaviors (cue cheering from the sofa cushions), and it also reduces risk of cancers of the reproductive system in both sexes. Ideally a young dog should be allowed to remain intact for 12 months, however as Finn is a rescue, part of the adoption agreement was to have him desexed before he reached 8 months of age. Also....his massive testosterone surge was driving him and me crazy.

The changes in behavior which occur during adolescence can be very challenging. There has been arrogance, disobedience, and many instances of "yeah? Make me!". However, having put in place the basic obedience and behavioral rules, at least Finn knew what was expected, he understood the corrections, and rapidly realised that the rules would remain consistent. This consistency is so important for a young dog. They are smart and calculating. If they can get away with something one time, they will continue to challenge you just in case they can get away with it again. Finn's big challenge has been settling down and not annoying the other dogs. He has been taught the "On your Bed" command, but apparently sliding off and leaving just a tail tip on the bed counts as "on the bed" in his mind. It doesn't, and despite constant re-commands and corrections he still tries me.

Every. Single. Evening.

This can be incredibly frustrating. Living with an intelligent dog is frustrating! Dogs have the cognitive ability to problem-solve, to plan, to create games, and to know how to press the Human's buttons just enough to create an Exorcist-style reaction. Sigh. This is where crate training has been a dogsend. Once in his crate, Finn calms right down and we can all have a peaceful evening.

Thanks for reading!