Dog training for adolescent dogs

Explore support during your dog’s adolescent stage. Choose your location to find a trainer near you.

Training adolescent dogs: what to look for

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Adolescent dog training helps owners adjust when a growing dog becomes more independent, easily distracted or inconsistent in familiar situations. The timing and course of adolescence vary, so a program should assess the dog in front of it rather than rely on a fixed age chart. The practical goal is to maintain useful routines, rebuild achievable versions of skills and provide appropriate outlets while the dog develops.

Questions to ask before booking

  • How will you adapt familiar exercises when distractions become harder?
  • Which practical skills should we prioritize during adolescence?
  • How will you distinguish a training gap from a concern needing further assessment?
Explore the guide6 sections

Adolescent dog behavior and familiar cues

A dog who responded readily as a puppy may now find smells, movement or other dogs more compelling. Start by identifying the environments where familiar cues still work. If recall is reliable in the home but not in a park, that tells you where to begin and where management is needed. It does not justify repeatedly calling in a setting where the dog cannot succeed.

Reduce difficulty before adding pressure. Work at a greater distance from distractions, use rewards the dog values and keep practice brief enough to remain productive. Ask the trainer how to separate a missing skill from a task that is currently too difficult. The answer should lead to a specific adjustment rather than a broad claim that the dog is challenging your authority.

Recall, leash skills and settling in adolescence

These skills often become more important as a young dog gains size and confidence. Recall practice should happen in a secure area or with appropriate management until the response is dependable in that setting. Leash work may begin in a quiet space before moving closer to interesting distractions. The instructor should coach you to reward attention before the dog is already pulling hard.

Settling is also worth teaching alongside activity. More exercise alone does not show a dog how to rest while people eat or work. Ask for a manageable mat or resting-place routine and help arranging quiet time. The plan should consider sleep, enrichment and your household schedule without promising that one activity will eliminate every unwanted behavior.

Manage social experiences for an adolescent dog

Adolescent dogs may need different distances or expectations than they did earlier. Do not assume that enthusiastic puppy play means the dog should greet every dog now. Practice calm movement, checking in with you and observing from a comfortable distance. If interactions repeatedly become overwhelming, ask for guidance before continuing the same routine.

A class should have enough space and support for these changing needs. Find out whether the course is a beginner refresher, a young-dog manners class or a specialist behavior group. Describe barking, lunging, guarding or fear in advance. New or pronounced behavior changes may need assessment beyond an ordinary adolescent course, including veterinary input when appropriate.

Consistent training tips for dog owners

Agree on a few household routines everyone can follow. If the rule at a doorway changes with each person, the dog has less useful information. A coach can help you define the behavior you want, arrange an easy practice opportunity and reward it. Management, such as gates or a secure walking setup, supports learning while reliability develops.

Track small improvements across weeks rather than expecting a straight line each day. Note the distance from a distraction, how much help was needed and whether the dog could settle afterward. If progress stalls, review the exercise and environment with the trainer. Avoid escalating equipment or corrections simply because an adolescent dog has become more difficult to handle.

Mental stimulation and physical exercise during adolescence

The transition from puppy to adult dog often requires a review of the daily routine. Appropriate sniffing, searching, play and physical exercise give young dogs activities they can enjoy, while predictable quiet periods support rest. A food-search game or a suitable chew may be useful after an outing, but enrichment should match the individual rather than become a constant effort to exhaust the dog.

Watch for the difference between engaged and overstimulated. If a long play session leaves your adolescent puppy grabbing clothing and unable to settle, more of the same activity may not help. A trainer can review the sequence of the day and suggest a calmer ending. Dog parks are optional, and a controlled walk with room to sniff may suit some dogs better than repeated high-arousal group play.

A simple impulse-control exercise without frustration

Teach a brief pause before something your dog wants. For example, hold the food bowl at a comfortable height and wait for a moment of stillness, then begin lowering it. Set the starting expectation so low that success is easy. If the dog repeatedly jumps, return to a simpler setup or use a different exercise rather than teasing them with an inaccessible reward.

Self-control develops through clear opportunities and reinforcement, not prolonged denial. The same principle can support a pause before a door opens or before a toy game begins. Keep short training sessions separate from situations where you urgently need to leave. Dog owners also benefit from a reset: if frustration is rising, use management, take a break and return when both learners can succeed.

76 businesses

Cold Creek Dog Training

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

4.9/5· 280 Google reviews

At Cold Creek Dog Training, we've been helping dogs and their people since 2002. Serving South-Central PA, Northern Maryland, and Eastern Ohio, our certified trainers…Read in fullShow less

At Cold Creek Dog Training, we've been helping dogs and their people since 2002. Serving South-Central PA, Northern Maryland, and Eastern Ohio, our certified trainers bring over 30 years of experience to every session. We offer private lessons, in-home Board & Train programs, and specialized support for challenging dogs with aggression or anxiety. Our "Grow With Us" puppy programs guide you through those tricky adolescent months with patience and structure. Our approach is personalized, compassionate, and rooted in real-world behavioral training, not just obedience! We focus on building calm, confident dogs and stronger human-canine relationships. Reach out today for a free consultation and your dog’s journey to better behavior!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

Stephanie Bennett's Believe in Dog

Houston, Texas

4.9/5· 268 Google reviews

As Houston’s only dog training center fully dedicated to positive, science-based methods, Believe in Dog is proud to offer a one-of-a-kind training experience focused…Read in fullShow less

As Houston’s only dog training center fully dedicated to positive, science-based methods, Believe in Dog is proud to offer a one-of-a-kind training experience focused entirely on connection, communication, and kindness. We don’t just teach cues and manners, we help people understand how their dogs think, feel, and learn. Led by nationally recognized trainer Stephanie Bennett, our team uses positive, relationship-based methods to create lasting change without fear or frustration.Unlike many pet businesses that offer everything from grooming to boarding, we focus exclusively on training and enrichment - because that’s where our passion and expertise truly shine.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Summit Dog Training LLC

Fort Collins, Colorado

4.9/5· 233 Google reviews

We are a locally & woman-owned dog training company ready to help you and your dog get started on a great life of adventures together! We offer group classes &…Read in fullShow less

We are a locally & woman-owned dog training company ready to help you and your dog get started on a great life of adventures together! We offer group classes & private programs focused on a variety of skill levels & behavior goals. We also offer drop-off early training & socialization for puppies 9-16 weeks in our Adventure Camp program! We can't wait to meet you and your dog!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Obedience training

Wonder Puppy

Portland, Oregon

4.8/5· 224 Google reviews

We are puppy specialists, clicker trainers, behavior nerds, teachers, coaches and problem solvers. Dog people. And people people, but especially dog-people people.…Read in fullShow less

We are puppy specialists, clicker trainers, behavior nerds, teachers, coaches and problem solvers. Dog people. And people people, but especially dog-people people. Together, we’re a full-service puppy parenting center based in Portland, Oregon. We have all the ingredients you need to raise a wonderful puppy, training expertise; a stellar class lineup; tools and treats; and a safe, supportive learning environment. Our proven recipe combines reward-based clicker training; critical early socialization; boundary management; and a fun, focused, holistic approach. We love what we do, and we can’t wait to meet you and your puppy. Let’s start making the positive training magic happen!

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training
  • House training

Pepper's Paws Dog Training, LLC

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

5/5· 216 Google reviews

Does your dog need help with house training, polite leash walking, listening to you? Do you have a new puppy and feel overwhelmed? Like taking care of your puppy is a…Read in fullShow less

Does your dog need help with house training, polite leash walking, listening to you? Do you have a new puppy and feel overwhelmed? Like taking care of your puppy is a full time job and you feel like you are failing? Is your adolescent dog afraid of meeting new people or dogs? Does your dog hate to be left alone? Deb can help you with all of this and more! Deb has been training dogs professionally for almost a decade. She has help thousands of dogs over the these struggles and more. Why should you choose to work with Deb? Deb is a people person - she's compassionate, patient, and gets great results with dogs and their people! Call or email Deb, you'll be glad you did!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training · customer-reported

Primepaw Dog Training: San Francisco's BEST!

San Francisco, California

4.8/5· 212 Google reviews

primepaw is a dedicated dog training and dog walking service in San Francisco, CA. Our wide range of services help cultivate deep bonds between you and your dog…Read in fullShow less

primepaw is a dedicated dog training and dog walking service in San Francisco, CA. Our wide range of services help cultivate deep bonds between you and your dog through positive (R+) reinforcement training methods! We offer group class training, puppy privates, adolescent school, dog walking, and so much more!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Crate training
  • Leash training

Noble Woof Dog Training PDX

Portland, Oregon

4.9/5· 199 Google reviews

Looking for Portland's Best Dog Trainers? Noble Woof Dog Training has certified behavior consultants and dog trainers who provide personalized in-home private…Read in fullShow less

Looking for Portland's Best Dog Trainers? Noble Woof Dog Training has certified behavior consultants and dog trainers who provide personalized in-home private training, puppy socialization, group classes, and drop-off day training. We specialize in working with aggressive, fearful, and anxious dogs as well as dogs suffering from Separation Anxiety. We use science driven, relationship centered, ethical training practices to set you and your dog up to thrive. Dog walking Drop off day training Private Puppy Training Puppy Socialization SE Portland Puppy socials Group puppy classes SE pdx Group dog training classes Leash reactivity training Behavior modification Dog aggression training Dog Fear & phobia Cooperative grooming & veterinary care

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training

Freak On A Leash Dog Training

Chesapeake, Virginia

4.9/5· 188 Google reviews

Freak On A Leash Dog Training is a leading dog training company based in Virginia Beach. We specialize in providing expert dog training services to help owners…Read in fullShow less

Freak On A Leash Dog Training is a leading dog training company based in Virginia Beach. We specialize in providing expert dog training services to help owners develop well-behaved and balanced dogs. Our team of certified trainers utilizes positive reinforcement techniques to address various training needs, including Virginia Beach dog training and Virginia Beach puppy training. We offer a range of personalized programs, including private sessions and group classes, tailored to suit each dog's individual needs. With a strong commitment to effective communication and building a strong bond between dogs and their owners, Freak On A Leash Dog Training is the trusted choice for Virginia Beach puppy training and dog training needs.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

2BK9, LLC

Harmony, North Carolina

5/5· 160 Google reviews

Specializing in basic obedience for dogs of all breeds and ages. Live a happier life with your…Read in fullShow less

Specializing in basic obedience for dogs of all breeds and ages. Live a happier life with your dog!

  • Leash training
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training · customer-reported

The Dogs' Spot - Dog Training Center and Boutique

North Kansas City, Missouri

4.6/5· 154 Google reviews

Our mission is to provide the premiere spot for Kansas City’s community of dog lovers who want to employ the art and science of positive reinforcement, find that…Read in fullShow less

Our mission is to provide the premiere spot for Kansas City’s community of dog lovers who want to employ the art and science of positive reinforcement, find that unique connection with their dog, and make new friends along the way. We now have a Boutique that supports our training mission by offering a curated selection of items that will enrich your dog's life.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Obedience training

Paws4training | Seattle Dog Training & Puppy Training

Seattle, Washington

4.7/5· 134 Google reviews

We offer professional dog training services in the greater Seattle area. Our expertise extends beyond just training dogs and puppies; we also provide guidance to…Read in fullShow less

We offer professional dog training services in the greater Seattle area. Our expertise extends beyond just training dogs and puppies; we also provide guidance to their owners. Through our constructive force-free training approaches, we aim to transform the training experience into an enjoyable and inclusive one for both you and your companion. This approach not only ensures that your dog receives the necessary training to become your ideal pet but also equips you with valuable insights into how your dog learns most effectively.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Obedience training

Reale Dog Training

Gahanna, Ohio

4.8/5· 132 Google reviews

We’re here to help strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged best…Read in fullShow less

We’re here to help strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged best friend.

  • Crate training
  • House training
  • Leash training

Argos Dog Training

Dorchester Center, Massachusetts

4.9/5· 121 Google reviews

Argos Dog Training offers effective online and in-person teaching and training for puppies and dogs of all ages and temperaments. As an independent, locally based…Read in fullShow less

Argos Dog Training offers effective online and in-person teaching and training for puppies and dogs of all ages and temperaments. As an independent, locally based company serving Boston and surrounding areas, we have many years of experience training dogs and educating guardians, and we love doing both! Whether your dog is calm or high-energy, young or old, friendly or withdrawn, we can help. Our customized dog training classes transform even the most stubborn, strong-willed canine into a well-behaved companion who listens to your commands, even without leashes or food rewards. You’ll start seeing results from the very first day of training, and we guarantee that these improvements will continue throughout your dog’s lifetime!

  • Behavior consultation
  • House training
  • Leash training

Comprehensive Canine Training

Jacksonville, Florida

5/5· 119 Google reviews

Comprehensive Canine Training, led by certified dog trainer in Jacksonville, Kate Godfrey, provides personalized dog training services throughout Jacksonville…Read in fullShow less

Comprehensive Canine Training, led by certified dog trainer in Jacksonville, Kate Godfrey, provides personalized dog training services throughout Jacksonville, Florida. With over a decade of experience, Kate is an honors graduate of the Animal Behavior College and an AKC STAR Puppy and Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Using balanced, science-based methods and positive reinforcement, she helps improve obedience, correct behavior issues, and strengthen the bond between dogs and owners. Kate also offers scent work for competition or enrichment, with every program tailored to each dog’s unique needs and personality.

  • Behavior consultation
  • House training
  • Leash training

Instinct Dog Behavior & Training Portland

Portland, Oregon

4.7/5· 115 Google reviews

**Instinct Dog Behavior & Training Portland** Helping dogs and their humans thrive in the Portland metro area and SW Washington! Our certified trainers and behavior…Read in fullShow less

**Instinct Dog Behavior & Training Portland** Helping dogs and their humans thrive in the Portland metro area and SW Washington! Our certified trainers and behavior consultants specialize in positive, practical training that delivers lasting results for behavior challenges big and small. We offer: 🐾 **In-Home & Virtual Training**: Tailored support wherever you are. 🐾 **Board & Train Camps**: In-home, overnight programs for puppies and adolescent dogs. Let us help you build a happy, peaceful life with your dog!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Obedience training · customer-reported
  • Reactivity training

Serenity Dog Training

St Clair Shores, Michigan

5/5· 111 Google reviews

In-home dog training. Obedience, Puppy Development, and Leash Walking Skills. As much as I train dogs, I train humans to become Mindful Canine Leaders: A mindful…Read in fullShow less

In-home dog training. Obedience, Puppy Development, and Leash Walking Skills. As much as I train dogs, I train humans to become Mindful Canine Leaders: A mindful canine leader will practice consistency, patience, playfulness, and compassion. These are the tools of positive communication that I teach humans to become the mindful canine leader their dogs will love and respect.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Practical Obedience LLC - Custom Dog Training

Suamico, Wisconsin

5/5· 109 Google reviews

We assist the Green Bay community with everything from puppy training & basic dog obedience to problem solving & dog behavior problems including fear, aggression and…Read in fullShow less

We assist the Green Bay community with everything from puppy training & basic dog obedience to problem solving & dog behavior problems including fear, aggression and reactivity dog behavior modification. We emphasize owner education and positive reinforcement training methods to build success at home. Please contact us to schedule a consultation to review your training goals and create a custom training plan. Hours listed reflect our open office hours when clients can call or drop by for information and staff is available to assist you. Available by appointment Monday-Saturday. Now offering full-day Puppy DaySchool - a unique and comprehensive training & socialization program for puppies and Teenage DaySchool for adolescent dog training!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training

Amanda Gagnon Dog Training

New York, New York

4.7/5· 106 Google reviews

Amanda Gagnon Dog Training offers Group Classes, Workshops, Private Training Services and more throughout Manhattan 7-days a week. Our training programs are designed…Read in fullShow less

Amanda Gagnon Dog Training offers Group Classes, Workshops, Private Training Services and more throughout Manhattan 7-days a week. Our training programs are designed to help our clients experience the deep joy that results from a healthy relationship with their dog. We use well-researched techniques that are grounded in scientific evidence and applied in fun and effective ways. Most importantly, we strive to improve the lives of every dog and human who comes through our door. Administrative Office closed Saturday & Sunday, and reachable via email only on Fridays.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Leash training
  • Puppy training

Bark Tutor School for Dogs

Indianapolis, Indiana

4.7/5· 105 Google reviews

Bark Tutor School for Dogs is Indianapolis's original day training program, built specifically for puppies and adolescent dogs up to six months of age. Our…Read in fullShow less

Bark Tutor School for Dogs is Indianapolis's original day training program, built specifically for puppies and adolescent dogs up to six months of age. Our credentialed trainers work with your dog during the day, then bring you into the process at pickup so the learning carries home with you. Our curriculum focuses on foundation obedience and essential life skills, with intentional socialization opportunities throughout. We believe the early months are the most important window in a dog's development, and we take that seriously. Programs include Day Training and Private Lessons. Graduates of Bark Tutor are also welcome to join our daycare program. Part of the Bradley Phifer Dog Training company.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Crate training
  • House training

Calvert Dog Training

Denver, Colorado

5/5· 102 Google reviews

Calvert Dog Training provides: -group dog training classes at Foothills Animal Shelter -private dog training lessons from the comfort of your home We love all dogs…Read in fullShow less

Calvert Dog Training provides: -group dog training classes at Foothills Animal Shelter -private dog training lessons from the comfort of your home We love all dogs and want to meet yours!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Leash training
  • Obedience training

My Dog's Got Class

Lebanon, New Jersey

4.9/5· 100 Google reviews

Programs include canine good citizen preparation, crate training and leash…Read in fullShow less

Programs include canine good citizen preparation, crate training and leash training.

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training
  • Leash training

For Your K9, Inc

Elmhurst, Illinois

4.7/5· 93 Google reviews

For Your K9's mission is to educate people about dogs through classes, seminars, workshops and a variety of activities. Understanding how dogs learn allows our dogs…Read in fullShow less

For Your K9's mission is to educate people about dogs through classes, seminars, workshops and a variety of activities. Understanding how dogs learn allows our dogs to become well mannered members of our families and communities. Developing a greater understanding between people and dogs help create an environment of harmony and peace.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Obedience training

St. Pete Dog Works

St. Petersburg, Florida

5/5· 84 Google reviews

Positive Motivation. Thriving Dogs. At St. Pete Dog Works, our mission is to help you create a strong foundation that allows you to establish and maintain a happy and…Read in fullShow less

Positive Motivation. Thriving Dogs. At St. Pete Dog Works, our mission is to help you create a strong foundation that allows you to establish and maintain a happy and healthy relationship with your dog while teaching him the basics of living a well-mannered life. Our current training solutions include: • puppy classes (AKC S.T.A.R.) • free puppy play • family dog manners classes (AKC CGC) • training walks • one-on-one training • speciality classes like rally obedience, urban leash manners, come when called

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Unmistaken Stars Farm Sanctuary and Dog Training

Hubbardston, Massachusetts

5/5· 79 Google reviews

Unmistaken Stars Farm Sanctuary offers permanent residence to farm animals in need as well as humane education in the form of dog training and behavior consulting.…Read in fullShow less

Unmistaken Stars Farm Sanctuary offers permanent residence to farm animals in need as well as humane education in the form of dog training and behavior consulting. Supporting our mission to provide a place where people and animals help one another heal, we offer force free and fear free methods of dog training, and behavior modification. Our Fear Free certified trainer is also the only CCPDT Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA) in North Central Massachusetts (Hubbardston/Gardner line). Our training programs include group classes from puppy and beginner through advanced obedience training, private lessons and behavior consults specializing in anxiety, reactivity and aggression.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation · customer-reported
  • House training

Frequently asked questions

More detail to help you choose and prepare.

Why does my teenage dog seem to ignore commands?

Distractions, changing motivation and incomplete practice across settings can affect responses. Check whether the dog understands the cue in an easier environment and work from there. A trainer can help adjust difficulty and reinforcement instead of assuming intentional disobedience.

Will my dog grow out of adolescent behavior?

Maturity can change behavior, but it does not automatically teach recall, calm greetings or leash skills. Continue suitable training and management. Persistent fear, aggression or major changes deserve individual assessment rather than a wait-and-see assumption.

Further reading: AKC: Training a senior dog, Dogs Trust: Helping a rescue dog settle, Dogs Trust: Living with a blind or deaf dog, AVSAB: Humane training and socialization position statements, Battersea: Blind dog care and training

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