Dog and Puppy Behavior Differences in Canine Aging

Older dog and puppy behavior can be quite difference, depending on the breed and how old a dog is. Though extreme changes of behavior over a very short amount of time may be a sign of a medical condition, a gradual mellowness in temperament is to be expected at a certain point in a dog's life.

Characteristics of a Puppy

Puppies go through developmental stages. A puppy typically is weaned from his mother at 8 weeks, and completes his adolescence at 18 months. During this time, a puppy is:

• active
• gaining confidence
• exploring the world
• establishing relationships and behaviors
• learning roles and rules through play and training

Puppies often have have:

• short attention spans
• high energy
• the need to find their place in dominance hierarchies
• a high level of adaptability
• a need to urinate every 2 to 3 hours
• fear if not confined in a safe space if left alone

When a Dog Has Become an Adult

Whereas puppies need to explore, adult dogs appreciate predictability.

Adult dogs usually:

• can be left alone in a house for 9 to 10 hours without urinating
• exhibit a calm disposition toward other dogs and people
• settle into a learned role and relationship style
• can learn new behaviors and games
• respond to positive attention

These may not apply to all breeds and individual dogs but, compared to the dog as a puppy (and minus any traumatic experiences or unusual aggression problems), they are much more likely in the adult dog.

Senior Dogs Are Less Energetic

As a dog becomes a senior, he will:

• be less active
• sleep more
• enjoy, and be more content with, mellow playing, walking and interacting
• tire faster

As a dog ages, his behavior matures and he becomes a consistent and predictable companion.