When your puppy gets scared during their teenage years
As your puppy approaches adolescence, they might become fearful of things for no apparent reason. They could startle at things that previously caused no reaction and were perfectly fine with. This often happens when a puppy enters sexual maturation, typically around 5 months old. Below, we'll cover how to handle this 'teenage' phase and your puppy's new fears.
When does this 'teenage' phase usually happen in puppies?
This phase typically occurs between 5-7 months of age, coinciding with the start of adolescence and sexual maturation. Lots of changes are happening, which explains this sensitive period.
What are the signs of this 'teenage' phase?
It can be tricky to tell if your puppy is going through this phase, as it can come and go. They might be scared one day and then fine the next, only for the fear to return. It’s important to remember this is a normal part of development. Crucially, all fears should be handled the same way, regardless of whether it's during this phase or not. Hormone levels are high during this time, which can leave your puppy feeling confused. This might lead to behavioural changes like increased reactivity towards other dogs, becoming less social with people, and generally being more cautious.
Your puppy becomes fearful
The most noticeable change is that your puppy becomes afraid of things they weren't scared of before. For example, they might suddenly be frightened of loud cars or falling leaves, even if you've encountered these daily without issue. This phase is sometimes called the 'teenage phase' or 'ghost age' because the behaviour changes suddenly and seemingly without reason, as if something's spooking them.
What should I do during this phase?
Your puppy going through this confusing time is something you'll navigate together. It can be a stressful period for both of you, but here are some tips to help ease things.
Your puppy will be scared. It’s important to let them process this at their own pace. This applies to any fears your puppy develops as they grow. We want them to realise for themselves that something isn't scary, and this takes different amounts of time for different individuals.
Don't force your puppy to 'get over' a fear or rush towards the scary thing. This is a vital rule. If your puppy is scared of leaves, stop, let them observe and process what's happening, and give them time to figure out that a leaf isn't dangerous. Ideally, they'll become curious and approach it, but this can take a long time for some. Never rush your walks. Here are some other tips for dealing with fears:
Let your puppy process at their own pace. Don't fuss or pull them along on the lead. Allow them to keep the distance they need and don't increase the intensity of what's scary. For example, don't throw leaves around; let them lie still on the ground.
Stay neutral. Do you get stressed when your puppy barks or backs away? Take a few deep breaths and remain calm in the situation.
Never be in a hurry on walks. It's crucial your puppy has time to overcome their fear. If your puppy shows calm body language but hasn't approached the object, this can be a sign they're getting comfortable from a distance. Ideally, though, give them time to engage their curiosity.
Never reward with treats. Treats can overshadow the actual fear, and you might inadvertently 'poison' the treat by associating it with scary things. Be patient and don't tempt your puppy towards anything frightening.
It's easy for us to think, 'You've seen leaves before, don't worry!' But for your puppy at this stage, leaves are new and perceived as potentially dangerous. Remember this and show respect.
Don't pity your puppy. Be a source of security, but without excessive sympathy.
Environmental training
Use common sense and avoid overwhelming your puppy with environmental training during this period. This phase will pass. Environmental training is best done when a puppy is confident and curious. This isn't the time to challenge your puppy when they're feeling particularly anxious.
Play can ease tension
Remember to play with your puppy a lot during this time. After encountering something scary that they've managed to overcome, playing together afterwards can be beneficial. Important: get the order right: fear arises -> time to process the fear -> move away slightly -> play together.
