Behavioral Problems or Medical Problems?

In adolescence your well-behaved puppy may begin to challenge authority, or show aggression. However, it’s risky to assume that any new behavior during this time is a result of adolescence. What if your puppy’s new behavior is the result of a health problem? Because your puppy can’t tell you why he is behaving the way he is it’s up to you to find out. If you assume that any new behavior is a result of adolescence there is the possibility that a health problem will not be diagnosed, and your puppy will continue to suffer. For example, if your adolescent puppy has started reacting aggressively when someone touches his stomach he may have a health problem – it’s important not to assume his aggressiveness is just a stage he is going through.

Visit your veterinarian

A visit to your veterinarian is important. Your veterinarian can diagnose any health problems, or rule out a medical problem.

Don’t try and diagnose your puppy yourself. If you decide that the reason your puppy is chewing your furniture is because he is an adolescent going through a stage where he ignores your commands, including the one to stop chewing, you may be right. But it’s also possible that your puppy’s chewing behavior is due to nutritional deficiencies. Your veterinarian can rule out any health problems, or catch them early.

Is your puppy getting enough exercise?

If your puppy is healthy, make sure he is getting enough exercise – mentally and physically. When playing games with your puppy, vary the routine a bit so his mind is stimulated. There are many ways to do this. If you are playing with your puppy you may want to change the game by adding in commands like “sit” every so often. Adequate physical exercise is also very important. Probably the number one reason for behavior problems is puppies that aren’t getting enough exercise. A puppy that is getting the proper exercise may be too tired to get into mischief.

For example, if your puppy is not getting the physical exercise he needs he may communicate this by digging up your garden. He may be digging to use up energy that hasn’t been given a healthy outlet through walks and games. Walking is the best exercise for your puppy. Remember that your puppy is still developing. Don’t force him to do exercise, especially on pavement, which might injure his developing bones. Jogging and bicycling are too tough on your puppy until he is through adolescence. Each puppy is different, so it’s impossible to give you the age your puppy will be when his adolescent period is over. Two years old is a rough estimate, but again, because every puppy is different, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian.