A different body, a different mind
Adolescence in dogs is a real, biological phase. Hormone levels rise and fluctuate, affecting mood and attention. The self-control centre in the brain is still maturing. The result is a dog who feels intensely and reacts before they can hold themselves back.
Some dogs in this phase may develop fears or sensitivities to sounds, to movements, or to stimuli that previously left them indifferent.
Why it seems they "forgot"
Many guardians notice that their dog suddenly doesn't respond with the same ease as before, seems to forget things they once knew well.
In reality, nothing was lost. What they learned remains there, in their memory. But hormonal changes and the overarousal of the nervous system temporarily affect focus and the ability to apply what they know.
What they need from us
Patience. It's a phase that takes time. We don't solve it in two weeks, and that is normal.
Stability. We keep the routine, the same boundaries, the same calm. Stability around them helps them find their own calm.
Respect for new fears. We don't pressure them to approach something that now frightens them. We give them time and space to process it at their own pace.
Fewer demands, not more. This isn't the time to ask for harder things. It's the time to maintain what we have.
Care for homeostasis. Quality sleep, time to decompress, basic needs met. The more balanced the body, the easier this phase will be.
On the other side
When we stay steady and fair throughout this phase, the relationship grows even deeper afterwards.