As a dog owner, you’ve probably experienced the joy of watching your furry friend grow from an adorable puppy into a larger, more independent adolescent. But with this growth often comes a frustrating challenge: selective hearing. One day, your dog is responding perfectly to commands, and the next, it seems like they’ve forgotten everything they’ve ever learned. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this struggle, and there are ways to navigate this tricky phase. The key? Consistency!
Understanding the Teenage Dog Phase
Just like human teenagers, dogs go through an adolescent phase. This typically occurs between 6 to 18 months of age, depending on the breed. During this time, your once-obedient pup may start to test boundaries, become more independent, and yes, develop selective hearing.
This behavior isn’t your dog being deliberately disobedient. Instead, it’s a natural part of their development. They’re exploring their environment with newfound confidence and energy, which can sometimes override their desire to listen to you. It’s important to note that this phase is different from the earlier teething stage, where puppies might chew on furniture due to discomfort. If you’re still dealing with a teething puppy, check out our complete guide on how to stop your teething puppy from chewing your furniture.
Why Consistency is Crucial
When dealing with a teenage dog’s selective hearing, consistency is your best friend. Here’s why:
- Reinforces Learning: Consistent commands and responses help reinforce what your dog has already learned.
- Establishes Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Consistency helps them understand what’s expected of them.
- Builds Trust: When you’re consistent, your dog learns to trust and rely on your guidance.
- Reduces Confusion: Inconsistency can confuse your dog, making it harder for them to understand and follow commands.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Consistency
Now that we understand why consistency is important, let’s look at some practical ways to implement it:
1. Use the Same Command Words
Stick to the same words for each command. If you use “come” as your recall command, don’t switch between “come,” “here,” and “come here.” This clarity helps your dog understand exactly what you want.
2. Involve All Family Members
Ensure everyone in the household uses the same commands and enforces the same rules. A united front prevents your dog from getting mixed signals.
3. Maintain a Regular Schedule
Keep meal times, walk times, and training sessions as consistent as possible. This structure helps your dog know what to expect and when to expect it. Regular walks are especially important, but they can be challenging if your dog pulls on the leash. For tips on addressing this issue, visit our article on how to stop your dog from pulling on the leash.
4. Be Consistent with Rewards and Consequences
If you reward a behavior one day and ignore it the next, your dog will be confused. Similarly, if you allow your dog on the couch sometimes but scold them for it other times, they won’t understand the rule.
5. Practice in Different Environments
While keeping your commands consistent, practice them in various locations and situations. This helps your dog generalize their training and respond regardless of the environment.
Dealing with Selective Hearing
Even with consistency, you may still face moments of selective hearing. Here are some strategies to handle these situations:
1. Stay Calm
As hard as it can be, this is THE BIGGEST ONE. Getting frustrated or angry can make the situation worse. Not only your dog may interpret your heightened emotions as excitement or a game, further encouraging their disobedience, but it can also seriously affect his or her trust with you. Remember, 99% of what you do is foreign to them, it’s normal for them to be confused at most of what you say or do.
2. Regain Their Attention
If your dog is ignoring you, try to regain their attention. You can use a distinctive sound, like a whistle or a specific word that they associate with positive experiences. Sometimes, this really just means becoming a clown.
3. Make It Worth Their While
Increase the value of your rewards during this phase. Use high-value treats or toys that your dog finds particularly exciting. This can help motivate them to listen and respond.
4. Shorten the Leash
During walks, if your dog is ignoring commands, shorten the leash. This gives you more control and helps your dog focus on you rather than distractions.
5. Increase Exercise
A tired dog is often a more obedient dog. Ensure your teenage pup is getting enough physical and mental stimulation to help manage their excess energy. However, be cautious about overexertion, especially in warm weather. For tips on keeping your dog cool during exercise in warm weather, check out our article on 15 ways to keep your dog cool on a warm day.
The Importance of Patience
Remember, this phase is temporary. With consistency and patience, your dog will eventually grow out of this challenging period. Don’t give up on your training efforts, even if it seems like you’re not making progress. Your consistency now will pay off in the long run.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve been consistent in your approach and are still struggling with your dog’s behavior, it might be time to consult a professional dog trainer. They can provide personalized advice and strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Conclusion
Dealing with a teenage dog’s selective hearing can be frustrating, but it’s a normal part of their development. By maintaining consistency in your commands, routines, and responses, you can help guide your dog through this challenging phase. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Stay patient, keep training sessions positive and fun, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
With time, consistency, and lots of love, your teenage dog will grow into a well-behaved adult companion. The effort you put in now will strengthen your bond and set the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior. Keep at it, stay consistent, and enjoy the journey of watching your furry friend grow and learn!
