Adolescent Dog Training & Support

Around 5 to 6 months of age, something starts to shift in our puppies. They begin to realize they have autonomy. Mischief increases, listening skills seem to vanish, and behaviors like reactivity may emerge—even toward things or people that were previously no big deal. On top of that, many are growing rapidly, becoming stronger and more challenging to handle physically.

Welcome to adolescence.

Depending on your dog’s breed and size, this developmental stage can last until they’re 2, 3, or even 4 years old. It’s a long phase—but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to help you navigate this important time with understanding and confidence.

I have a real soft spot for adolescent dogs. I see this stage not as a problem to fix, but as a critical period that can flourish with the right kind of guidance, patience, and encouragement. These dogs can learn—they do learn—even when it seems like they’re staring at you blankly, as if they’ve never heard a cue in their life. I call this “foggy brain,” and it's normal.

This stage can be frustrating, no doubt. It can test our patience and even lead us to consider harsher methods or, heartbreakingly, rehoming. But there is another way.

As part of your team, I’ll support you and your dog with kind, calm, and clear communication. We’ll focus on what really matters at this stage: plenty of movement and exploration, enrichment through sniffing and play, good sleep, proper nutrition, and building a relationship based on trust.

With the right support, your adolescent dog can grow into a well-balanced, happy adult—and I’m here to help every step of the way.

Getting Started With Your Package

We will begin our work together with a virtual consultation to discuss your areas of concern. I will make observations, and then map out the best steps forward together.

After purchasing your session(s), please fill out the Release Form below and email a signed
version to [email protected]. Upon submitting your signed & dated Release form, we will schedule your first training session.

Release Form

Package Options

Triage / Preliminary Session

There are a couple of reasons why a single training session, offered via Zoom, may be what you need.

Triage! Oh dear, what have I done! I'm feeling overwhelmed, or an incident happened, and I need to talk to a pro, to get us back on the right path.

A Preliminary Session. You're undecided if the way I teach is right for you, so you'd like to try it out for size. Or, your budget allows for a single session purchase now, and you'll buy additional sessions later.