Determining when dogs are at their worst in terms of behavior is an important consideration for any dog owner. Being prepared for periods of behavioral issues can help owners better manage them. While every dog is unique, there are some general trends in terms of what ages dogs tend to exhibit more problematic behaviors.
In the opening paragraphs, we’ll provide a quick overview answering when dogs tend to be worse behaved based on their age and developmental stage. Then, we’ll go into more detail on the behavioral changes and challenges of each phase.
Quick Answers
When are dogs worse behaved?
- Puppies from 8-12 weeks when they are learning housetraining and bite inhibition.
- Adolescence from 6-18 months when they are testing boundaries.
- Senior years, when cognitive decline can lead to behavior changes.
These periods represent typical ages when dogs exhibit more problematic behaviors. However, each dog is unique and owners should monitor changes.
Puppyhood (8-12 weeks)
The puppyhood period from 8-12 weeks represents a major transition for puppies. At this age, puppies are first separated from their littermates and introduced to their new human families. This is often when problematic behaviors first arise.
Housetraining Struggles
Puppies at 8 weeks old have very limited bladder and bowel control. They will need to urinate about every 1-2 hours. Frequent accidents in the house are very common at this age as puppies have not yet learned proper housetraining.
Signs a puppy needs to go include:
- Pacing
- Sniffing
- Circling
When these signals occur, immediately bring the puppy outside to their designated potty spot. With consistent, positive reinforcement housetraining, most puppies can be fully trained by 6 months.
Nipping and Biting
Puppies explore objects and interact with their worlds through their mouths. It’s common for 8-12 week old puppies to exhibit nipping, mouthing, and biting of hands, limbs, and clothing. This is normal but unwanted behavior.
Puppies learn bite inhibition through play with littermates. Since they no longer have this outlet, it’s important for owners to teach appropriate mouthing. Strategies include:
- Providing chew toys to redirect biting
- Yipping or saying “ouch” when nipped then ignoring puppy for 15-30 seconds
- Ending play and walking away when biting occurs
With patience and consistency, puppies can learn to soften their mouths and understand that biting humans is undesirable behavior.
Adolescence (6-18 Months)
The adolescent period between 6-18 months represents another challenge in terms of behavior. Dogs are transitioning biologically and mentally during this time. Owners may feel like their well-behaved puppy has suddenly turned into a rebellious teenager.
Testing Limits
During adolescence, dogs are mentally maturing and developing independence. They will start testing boundaries and limits. Previously learned commands and rules may be ignored. Increased accidents may occur even in housetrained dogs.
Adolescent dogs should be handled with additional patience and consistency. Obedience training and mental stimulation are important during this period. Set fair rules and stick to them. Don’t let poor behaviors slide, as these can become habitual.
Reactivity
Reactivity towards people, dogs, or other stimuli often arises during adolescence. Dogs may become more territorial and protective. Leash reactivity, barrier frustration, and barking are common issues.
Socialization should continue throughout adolescence. Positive conditioning can help make triggers less stressful. Proper management is key – don’t put an adolescent dog into situations they cannot handle. Work on focus, impulse control, and calmness. Medications or specialized training programs may be needed in severe cases.
Senior Years (7 years+)
While not typically as difficult in terms of behavior as the adolescent period, senior dogs can develop problematic behaviors as they age.
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome affects a significant portion of elderly dogs. It involves mental decline similar to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Symptoms include:
- Disorientation
- Altered sleep-wake cycles
- House soiling
- Anxiety
- Changes in social interaction
There are supplements that may help reduce symptoms. Adapting the dog’s routine, environment, and interactions can further help manage the changes.
Pain-Related Aggression
Dogs in chronic pain due to arthritis or other conditions become more irritable. They may snap or bite when handled, even by family members.
Have a veterinarian thoroughly assess older dogs exhibiting aggression. Supportive medications, joint supplements, physiotherapy, and other pain management strategies can vastly improve comfort and behavior.
Conclusion
While there are certain developmental periods where dogs are more prone to problematic behaviors, each dog will be unique. Raising and training a dog requires lifelong learning, adaptation, and commitment from pet owners. But the rewards of the human-canine bond make it all worthwhile.
Understanding typical behavioral challenges at different ages allows owners to be better prepared. The keys are socialization, positive training, quality medical care, and paying close attention to subtle changes in your dog’s health or temperament. With patience, consistency and support, even the most difficult phases will pass.