Why Adolescence Is the Golden Hour of Dog Training

2025-08-22

Think your teenage dog is just a chaotic, cue-ignoring menace you have to survive? Think again. Today I’m flipping the narrative on canine adolescence—and showing you why this misunderstood phase is actually a once-in-a-lifetime training window. If your dog is between 6 months and 2 years old (ish) this is not the time to throw in the towel or cross your fingers and hope they grow out of it. It’s time to get strategic. Because biologically, behaviourally, and emotionally, your dog is primed for growth. You just need to know how t...

Think your teenage dog is just a chaotic, cue-ignoring menace you have to survive? Think again.

Today I’m flipping the narrative on canine adolescence—and showing you why this misunderstood phase is actually a once-in-a-lifetime training window.

If your dog is between 6 months and 2 years old (ish) this is not the time to throw in the towel or cross your fingers and hope they grow out of it. It’s time to get strategic. Because biologically, behaviourally, and emotionally, your dog is primed for growth. You just need to know how to work with it.

And if you're craving more focus, more connection, and more joy on your walks? This is also the perfect time to jump into my 21-Day Engagement Training course... a science-led step-by-step program to help you become the most rewarding and compelling thing in your dog’s world.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why the “just survive adolescence” mindset is sabotaging your training
What’s actually going on in your dog’s brain during this stage
The 3 major neurological changes shaping your dog’s behaviour right now
How to turn independence-seeking into a bonding opportunity
Why adolescent dogs are more trainable than puppies in key ways
How to use novelty, reward upgrades, and real-life reinforcement to boost your results
Practical training tips to get better focus and cooperation—without the overwhelm
How to lay the foundations now for an adult dog you’ll be proud of for life

💻 Want to dive deeper into transforming your dog’s behaviour with science-backed strategies that actually work?

Check out my digital training products, freebies and online courses at: www.listendogtraining.com

Or jump into my 21-day engagement training program at:
https://listendogtraining.com/product/21-day-engagement-training/

You can use code PODCAST10 for 10% off all my digital dog training packages, guides & courses!

📱 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram and TikTok → @listendogtraining

🎧 If you found this episode helpful, I’d be so grateful if you left a review 🌟 or shared it with a fellow dog lover—it helps the podcast grow and helps more people train with confidence, clarity, and joy!

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