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The excitement of adopting a new puppy or young dog is a wonderful experience and something the whole family can enjoy. This is due to the fact of them being small and easy to contain. Their behaviour can be cute but also a little mischievous, but due to their size this can be easily controlled.
Something you need to consider when adopting a young puppy (not just in the here and now but also for the future); the cuteness is still going to be there but they will start to grow. Their determination becomes stronger, and this is a big factor to consider when adopting.
When the teenage years set in it can become a whole different story. Are you prepared for the challenging times ahead?
Adolescent times mark the change from being a puppy to becoming an adult. This can start from between 6 – 12 months and will usually end between 18 – 24 months. During this time your puppy may become very rebellious and this phase can be a very testing time to their owners.
This is why it is so important to be firm and consistent with your training to establish boundaries. Which hopefully, you would have achieved early on during their puppy training. One of the most important things to remember is never to shout or raise your voice at your puppy/young dog. Your tone and volume play a huge part in their development and essentially it is how you bond. This rule needs to apply from day one.
Shouting loudly has proven to have the opposite effect and can lead to an unresponsive puppy/young dog.
However all this being said once you have come to terms with the responsibilities involved, adopting a puppy, young dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life. You’ll be giving a home to a puppy or a young dog that most possibly has not had the best start in life. This is a wonderful thing for them and they will show you this.
In the end, a puppy or a young dog can really bring a family together as well. It’s a great way to bond with your children and teaching them about love, and responsibility.