“They’re Not Being Naughty”: Why Teenage Dogs Stop Listening

Many dog owners are blindsided when their once-perfect puppy seems to change overnight. Suddenly, recall becomes unreliable, loose-lead walking falls apart, and "forgotten" habits like jumping, barking, or grabbing items resurface with a vengeance.

If you brought home a puppy over the holidays, you might find yourself right in the thick of this transition. According to accredited canine behaviourist, expert force-free trainer, and bestselling author Sarah Rutten, this isn’t a rebellion—it’s biology.

A Normal Part of Development

“Adolescence can begin from around 4 months and continue through to 2 years, depending on the dog,” Sarah explains. “Teenage dogs have a reputation for pushing boundaries, but what we’re usually seeing is a young dog going through a major developmental stage.”

During this period, dogs often become more impulsive and inconsistent. You might notice your dog becoming:

• More adventurous and bold (ignoring you to explore).
• Easily overwhelmed or sensitive to things they used to ignore.
• Distracted by the environment over their handler.

“It’s very common for guardians to feel like their dog has forgotten everything,” says Sarah. 

“Dogs at this age are still developing their frontal lobe, much like human teenagers. Impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation are still maturing.”

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Debunking the "Dominance" Myth

When a dog stops listening, it’s easy to feel like they are "testing" you. However, Sarah notes that interpreting this as a power struggle can damage the bond between dog and owner.

“Dogs don’t misbehave to challenge us or take control. Behaviour is influenced by what the dog is experiencing at that moment, not a desire to be naughty.”

She adds that outdated ideas around dominance can make this stage more difficult for both dogs and their guardians. “When people believe their dog is deliberately pushing boundaries, they’re more likely to respond with frustration or punishment,” Sarah says. “But what dogs need during this stage is support, guidance and consistency.”

How to Survive (and Thrive) During Adolescence

The original Australian Dog Lover mascots, Porthos and Aramis, pictured in 2016. 

Even for our high-energy Malinois, mental enrichment like a snuffle mat was a game-changer for channelling adolescent energy into calm, focused behaviour.

The key to navigating the teenage months isn't about working harder; it’s about working smarter and adjusting your expectations.

“Adolescence isn’t a sign that your training has failed,” Sarah reassures. “It’s a sign your dog is growing up.”

To help your dog through this phase, Sarah recommends these six focus areas:

• ✔ Go Back to Basics: Revisit foundation skills like recall and lead walking in low-distraction environments (like your living room or backyard) before expecting them to work at the park.
• ✔ Lower the Difficulty: If your dog isn't listening, the environment is likely too "loud" for them. Move to a quieter space to set them up for success.
• ✔ Reinforce the Good: Consistently reward the behaviours you like. Dogs repeat what works for them!
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• ✔ Manage the Environment: Use leads, baby gates, or long lines to prevent them from practicing "bad" habits like jumping or bolting while they are still learning.
• ✔ Meet Their Needs: Ensure they have plenty of mental stimulation and "sniffaris" (scent-based walks) to burn off adolescent energy safely.
• ✔ Stay Consistent: Clear, predictable boundaries create a sense of security. “It’s not about being stricter,” Sarah says, “it’s about being clear.”

Looking Ahead

While it can feel like your training has gone out the window, Sarah reminds owners that this phase is temporary. "With the right support, dogs come through it and continue to develop into well-adjusted adults."

The complexities of the adolescent brain are a major focus of Sarah’s upcoming book, which follows her previous success, The Canine Perspective. While the new title is still under wraps, it promises to help guardians bridge the communication gap during these confusing developmental years.

“It continues the conversation from my first book, helping guardians understand why dogs behave the way they do, especially during stages like adolescence where things can feel confusing,” she says. “When we understand what’s happening, everything becomes much easier to navigate.”

More Information

For more expert advice on dog behaviour and force-free training, visit Sarah’s website.

Her bestselling book, The Canine Perspective: Using Force-Free Methods to Unleash Your Dog’s Paw-tential, is an essential guide for any puppy guardian and is available now from Booktopia and Amazon Australia.

🐾 Related Stories

Now that you understand why your teenager is acting out, how do you ensure they grow into a confident, resilient adult?

• Regretting Your New Puppy? You’re Not Alone – Sarah Rutten explores "puppy remorse" and how to bridge the gap between expectation and reality.
• How to Help Your Teenage Dog and Keep Your Sanity! – Practical exercises and training tips to help you navigate the adolescent phase.
• The First 14 Days with Your Puppy: The Do’s and Don’ts – Expert advice from Sarah Rutten on surviving the first fortnight.
• Is My Dog Normal (or Just Plain Weird)? – Sarah Rutten explores common (and quirky) canine behaviours.
• Puppy Biting: A Survival Guide – How to navigate the "land shark" phase safely before they reach their teens.

Adelaide’s Cutest “Race Day” Returns: Fashion, Fun, and a Purpose Beyond the Finish Line

A much-loved highlight on the Adelaide social calendar is back this May, bringing together high fashion, four-legged flair, and a powerful mission to support South Australians and their pets in crisis.

The Canine Cup returns on Sunday, 17 May 2026, at boutique event space Jackson Square, Hindmarsh. Offering a fresh, animal-friendly take on the traditional race day luncheon, this annual fundraiser replaces live racing with heart-warming "doggy fun runs."

Fashion, Fun, and "Pocket Rockets"

Guests will enjoy a stylish sit-down luncheon where the excitement of the track comes to life on the big screen. 

The "races" feature local pups in pre-filmed runs that celebrate personality over performance.

Some of the 2025 participants: (L-R) Bosco, in the Big Dawgs & Rescue Run category; Henrietta, in the high-energy Pocket Rockets category; and Leaf, in the Golden Oldies category. Photography by Sarah D.

As you can see, canine racing champions come in all shapes and sizes! From the "Rescue Run" (represented here by a deeply happy Akita and its owner) to the high-energy "Pocket Rockets" and dignified "Golden Oldies" categories.

The event delivers a light-hearted experience that resonates far beyond the room.

The day isn't just about what's on screen; attendees can expect a curated lunch, "Fashions on the Field," raffles, and live auctions, all while surrounded by fellow dog lovers.

The competition is fierce but friendly. Whether you favour a classic, flowing look or want to make a modern statement, the Canine Cup is the perfect excuse to dress to impress for a good cause. 

Racing for a Critical Cause

While the atmosphere is celebratory, the purpose is vital. The event is proudly presented by Paws For Change in collaboration with Safe Pets Safe Families, with all proceeds supporting SafePaws Haven.

SafePaws Haven is a ground-breaking joint initiative designed to establish South Australia’s first 24/7 emergency pet boarding facility. Managed under the Safe Pets Safe Families service model, the facility provides a lifeline for people facing crisis—including domestic violence, homelessness, and medical emergencies.

Breaking the Barrier to Safety

The statistics in South Australia remain sobering: with more than 100 domestic violence incidents reported daily and approximately 70% of households owning a pet, the lack of safe options for animals is a critical barrier to seeking help.

Research shows that many victims will delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot bear to leave a beloved pet behind. Safe Pets Safe Families has been working to change this for years, providing emergency foster care so that no one in our community has to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pet.

“Events like the Canine Cup show how powerful community support can be when it comes to creating real change,” says Annie Leo, Founder of Paws For Change.

“Access to emergency care for pets isn’t a luxury; it’s a critical part of keeping people safe. SafePaws Haven is about removing that barrier so people can move toward safety with peace of mind,” adds Jennifer Howard, Founder of Safe Pets Safe Families.

Beyond the upcoming SafePaws Haven, the charity continues its vital work through programs like Paws & Pals, which provides outreach and pop-up vet clinics for those experiencing homelessness or extreme disadvantage.

With strong community backing and growing interest each year, the Canine Cup continues to shine a spotlight on innovative, compassionate solutions that keep people and pets together when they need each other most.

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Event Details

• Where: Jackson Square, Hindmarsh, Adelaide

• When: Sunday, May 17, 2026

• Tickets: www.caninecup.org

• Stay Updated:

• Follow on Facebook: The Canine Cup

• Follow on Instagram: @caninecup

They Save Our Pets — But At What Cost? A Call for Kindness This World Veterinary Day

From compassion fatigue to a rise in client abuse, Australia’s veterinary professionals are at a breaking point. This World Veterinary Day, we explore the 'Little Things' that can save the people who save our pets.

As the world prepares to recognise World Veterinary Day this Saturday, April 25, 2026, the spotlight is shifting away from the clinical and toward the human. While this year’s theme, “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health,” highlights their critical role in our global systems, a more urgent conversation is happening behind the consult room doors: the mental and emotional well-being of those who care for our pets.

Behind the steady hands and calm voices, many Australian veterinary professionals are struggling under a weight that is becoming increasingly unsustainable.

Speaking this week on 3AW Breakfast, Lort Smith Chief Veterinarian Dr Jessica Wilde warned that the public perception of the profession is often a myth.

“It’s not just hugging puppies. People see the fluff, but they don't see the dark side of the industry.” — Dr. Jessica Wilde, Lort Smith Chief Vet.

The Internal Burden: Compassion Fatigue

For those in the industry, the work doesn't stay at the clinic. Melbourne-based veterinary nurse and photographer Bree Colenso has seen this first-hand after more than a decade in the field, including oncology.

“People often only see the clinical side of what we do,” Bree says. “But so much of it is emotional. You’re sitting with families through diagnosis, treatment, hope, and sometimes loss.”

“You don’t just walk away from those moments. You carry them.”

From emergency trauma to long-term illness journeys, veterinary teams absorb the fear and heartbreak of the people in front of them. “And then you go onto the next patient, and the next. There’s not always space to process it,” Bree explains.

Dr Wilde echoed this sentiment, pointing out that veterinarians are frequently required to treat critically ill animals while simultaneously “counselling” their owners through acute trauma.

The External Pressure: A Rise in Abuse

While the internal emotional toll is heavy, a new and darker pressure is emerging from the other side of the counter. At North Melbourne’s Lort Smith Animal Hospital, one of Australia’s largest not-for-profit veterinary hospitals, staff are reporting a concerning escalation in aggressive behaviour from clients.

Driven by rising financial stress and cost-of-living pressures, recent incidents have included physical violence, threats to personal safety, and repeated verbal abuse.

Lort Smith Chief Veterinarian, Dr Jessica Wilde, notes that the deep emotional connection people have with their pets can create a "perfect storm" when paired with financial strain.

 “Melbourne families love their pets—they’re part of the family—so when something goes wrong, emotions run high,” Dr Wilde says. 

“We understand that people are under financial pressure right now. But abuse towards veterinary staff is never acceptable.”

A Profession at the Breaking Point

The statistics are sobering. Veterinarians are almost four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population—equating to one Australian vet taking their own life approximately every 12 weeks.

“We’re seeing fewer people entering and staying in the profession due to the pressures; from compassion fatigue through to unrealistic expectations and workplace stress,” Dr Wilde says. “This is not sustainable.”

She told 3AW that the industry is reaching a “breaking point,” with the emotional struggles now acting as a significant barrier for new people wanting to enter the field.

Turning Awareness Into Action: The Power of "Little Things"

In recognition of World Veterinary Day, the industry is fighting back with kindness, and it often starts with a small gesture. Sophie’s Legacy, an organisation born from the memory of Sophie, a vet who left us at just 33, has launched the “Little Things” Campaign.

The campaign illustrates a simple truth: a vet sitting in her car after a gruelling 12-hour shift, mulling over the day's hard decisions, finds a small paper bag on her windscreen. Inside is a chocolate bar and a note: “For all you do that we don’t see. For every gentle touch and every hopeful moment. Thank you.”

That small smile makes the weight of the day a little easier to carry. This World Veterinary Day, Sophie’s Legacy is asking the community to turn these small gestures into something lasting—a gift of $33 to help save the people who save our animals.

How You Can Help

As we head into the ANZAC long weekend—a time for reflection and gratitude—, Pet Insurance Australia, Lort Smith, and Sophie’s Legacy are calling on the community to play a role in creating safer, more compassionate clinic environments.

• Donate: Support the "Little Things" campaign with a $33 donation to Sophie’s Legacy to fund mental health resources for the industry.

• Support: Bree Colenso’s initiative through Bree Ruby Photography is offering discounted sessions for vet professionals throughout April, with proceeds going to Not One More Vet (NOMV).

• Practice Kindness: As Dr. Wilde reminds us, a moment of patience during a long wait can be the difference between a staff member going home feeling valued, or going home feeling defeated.

“Behind every consultation is a person who genuinely cares,” adds PIA spokesperson Nadia Crighton. 

“World Veterinary Day is a reminder that supporting our vets isn’t just about recognising their skills, it’s about recognising their wellbeing, too.”

“A small moment of patience or kindness can be the difference between a staff member going home feeling valued, or going home feeling defeated.” — Dr. Jessica Wilde

A Field Report by Roxy the Cattle Dog

Sometimes my human drives past fields full of cows.

I do not spend every day thinking about cattle. That would be ridiculous.

I have a human to supervise, a house to run with an iron paw, squirrels to monitor, and an entire Toronto neighbourhood that depends on my vigilance. My schedule is already crowded.

Still, every now and then, when my human drives somewhere acceptable and not toward the vet, I look out the window and there they are.

Cows.

Standing around like a meeting has begun without anyone willing to lead it.

Something in me goes very quiet.

Not emotional. Instinctive.

Because it is hard not to feel they are waiting for someone to step in, restore order, and get things moving properly.

Beneath the snack negotiations, the couch disputes, and the daily burden of managing a clearly underqualified primate, I am still a cattle dog.

I did not begin life in Toronto, land of polite apologies and surprisingly expensive pet supplies.

I began in Texas.

More heat. More dirt. More humans making questionable decisions for dogs.

I do not remember every detail. Dogs are not historians. We remember what matters.

I remember uncertainty.

I remember crates. Strange voices. New smells. The feeling that my life had been handed from one set of humans to another, each with a clipboard and a different level of competence.

At some point I gathered that everyone felt very sorry for me.

This was kind, but not especially useful.

What I wanted was clear communication, a stable plan, and perhaps a snack.

Instead, I was moved along in stages, watching the world change through windows, holding on to the faint suspicion that I might be headed somewhere better.

Eventually, through a chain of events involving humans who briefly displayed good judgment, I was sent north.

Canadians, I have learned, are extremely sorry about difficult things. It seems to be one of their national skills.

I arrived in foster care, assessed the available humans, and selected the one who would become my long-term assignment.

He believes he adopted me.

That is not exactly how I would describe it.

I observed a leadership vacuum and agreed to fill it.

City life has its advantages.

Regular walks. Predictable routines. Parks. Squirrels with the confidence of animals who have never faced meaningful consequences. And one human who requires near-constant oversight.

So I am not underworked.

But dogs like me were not built to drift pleasantly through life with a soft bed and the occasional enrichment toy.

We were built for purpose.

We like movement that means something. We like knowing where everyone is, where they should be, and what happens next if they fail to cooperate.

So I adapt.

The Perimeter Check

This is scent work, although I do not call it that. That sounds like something humans would put on a motivational poster. I call it clearing the area. A proper park, sidewalk, or yard contains layers of critical information: who has been here and whether squirrel activity has reached unacceptable levels. My job is to inspect and file a silent report unless escalation is required. 

Escalation is rare. But I remain prepared.

The Commute Escort

This is how I move my human through the city without allowing him to drift into foolishness. Streets are full of distractions and other people moving without clear purpose. I keep him focused, properly paced, and heading in the correct direction. He believes we are going for a walk. I believe I am escorting a slow team member through a city that has far too much activity.

The Living Room Round-Up

When cattle are unavailable, one must improvise with available resources. Toys, balls, socks, and various household objects can be moved, guarded, collected, or if standards continue to slip, strategically improved. 

Humans tend to call this “destroying things.” I call it quality control. This is obviously not the same as proper field work. However, it maintains standards and gives me the satisfaction of restoring order to a room that humans have allowed to descend into unacceptable levels of disorder.

The Leadership Protocol

This is the ongoing task of reminding my human to give me responsibilities worthy of my abilities. Sometimes this means making me wait properly, find something, check a room, or hold a position until released. Humans like to call this training. I prefer to think of it as management finally becoming slightly more organised.

This is what humans do not always understand about dogs like me.

Love is wonderful. I accept it. I deserve it.

But love is not the same as purpose.

A dog like me needs work, even improvised work.

A walk with structure. A search game. Something to watch. Something to solve. Some part of the day that feels like more than passing time.

I do not need cattle every afternoon. I am realistic.

But I do need that feeling. The sense that my brain and body have been given something worthy to do.

I was lucky.

I got out.

I found a human with obvious flaws but a trainable spirit.

I learned that, with enough repetition, humans can become almost functional.

So yes, sometimes I look at cows in a field and wonder.

A dog can love the life she has and still feel the old work waiting in her bones.

I may live in Toronto now. I may herd one tall, slow human instead of a proper herd.

But every now and then, when I see those cows, I remember exactly who I am.

And for one glorious second, I sit up a little straighter in the back seat.

Just in case they need me.

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About the Author

Roxy the Cattle Dog is a Texas rescue and Toronto household supervisor, with a strong work ethic and a firm belief that humans require supervision. She specialises in household security, routine enforcement, and managing slow learners through strategic use of treats. She is the author of the Barking Orders series.

The Barking Orders Collection:
(Both titles available in Kindle and Paperback formats)

• Barking Orders: A Dog’s Diary of Chaos, Loyalty, and Squirrel Surveillance
• Barking Orders: More Funny Adventures of a Very Opinionated Cattle Dog (A Dog’s Diary of Chaos, Squirrels, and Running the Entire Household)

Official Directives & Field Reports:

• Instagram: @roxythecattledog2025

• Facebook: @RoxyTheCattleDog

• Shop the Series: View Roxy’s Amazon Author Page

Unlocking the Classroom: Why Therapy Dogs are the Key to Helping Vulnerable Kids Learn

Paw Pals Appeal helps struggling children find a safe path back to learning

For some children, school isn’t a place of curiosity and growth; it can be a source of fear and anxiety. This April, a community appeal is seeking support for Paw Pals, an animal-assisted learning and wellbeing program where therapy dogs help vulnerable children rediscover confidence, connection, and a readiness to learn.

Double Your Impact: The April 20–24 Boost Round

DONATION ALERT: From Monday 20 – Friday 24 April, every donation made to the Paw Pals appeal will be DOUBLED thanks to supporting partners including iCare Staffing and the Catholic Development Fund. Your gift will go twice as far to help children reconnect with school.

Therapy dogs support emotional safety

Delivered by MacKillop Family Services, Paw Pals supports children who have experienced distress, disrupted schooling, anxiety, or behavioural challenges that make traditional school environments overwhelming. Many children referred to the program have faced repeated exclusion or prolonged disengagement from education.

Paw Pals takes a different approach to education. Rather than focusing first on academic outcomes, the program prioritises emotional safety, trust, and wellbeing. Through structured sessions led by specialist educators and trained therapy dogs, Paw Pals has supported more than 1,700 children in Victoria to regulate their emotions, build relationships, and experience learning in a calm, supportive setting.

“A classroom can feel unsafe or simply too overwhelming for some children,” said Brona Walsh, MacKillop Family Services.

“Paw Pals meets children where they are. The presence of a therapy dog helps lower anxiety and build trust, creating the emotional safety children need before learning can begin.”

Real Stories: The Impact of Billie, Mango, and Zanna

Behind every Paw Pals session is a story of growth. These aren’t just feel-good moments—they’re turning points:

• Billie helped a VCAL student complete a critical assessment and finish Year 12.

• Zanna helped a quiet group present confidently to their school.

• Mango became a young person’s safe point and opened the door to participation.

30 Years of Supporting Change

This year, MacKillop Seasons is celebrating an incredible milestone: 30 years of supporting people through change, loss, and grief. They provide evidence-based education programs that support children, young people, and adults to better understand their experiences and attend well to their grief. Paw Pals is a critical extension of this mission, helping students feel calm, capable, and ready to learn.

Community support to grow Paw Pals

Across Victoria, the program now includes 21 therapy dogs, 15 facilitators, and thousands of sessions. Despite growing demand, Paw Pals relies on community support to continue and expand its work.

The program helps children develop emotional regulation, social skills, communication, and school readiness. Educators report improved attendance, greater willingness to engage in learning tasks, and stronger relationships between children and staff.

“With the right support, every child can learn,” Brona said. 

“Community support for Paw Pals means children who are struggling aren’t left behind, they’re given the chance to thrive.”

How You Can Help

Funds raised through the appeal during the month of April will directly support trained therapy dog teams, specialist staff, and program delivery.

Now is the moment to make your gift go twice as far. 

• More therapy dog sessions

• More student‑friendly learning support

• More children feeling safe and confident in the classroom

Members of the community are encouraged to donate or learn more about Paw Pals by visiting: Paw Pals Appeal | Help a Child Reconnect with Learning

Win the Ultimate Peace of Mind: Life360 Pet GPS Tracker & Gold Membership Giveaway

For many Australian dog owners, the fear of a "Houndini" act is all too real. Whether it’s a sudden bolt during a thunderstorm or an adventurous spirit that leads them under the garden fence, knowing exactly where your pet is provides invaluable peace of mind.

In the lead up to Mother’s Day, we have teamed up with Life360 to offer one lucky reader the ultimate safety bundle: a Life360 Pet GPS Tracker and a one-year Gold Life360 Membership, with a total prize value of $249.98.

Total Visibility for the Modern Dog Mum

Fronted by Australia’s most famous "Chief Escape Officer," Valerie the Dachshund, the Life360 Pet GPS Tracker is designed to integrate seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.

You might remember Valerie as the viral "runaway snag" who reunited with her family after a miraculous 500 days on the run. Now, she’s using her expertise as Life360's official Chief Escape Officer to help other "houndinis" stay safe and connected.

Key Features of the Life360 Pet GPS

✔️ Real-Time Tracking & One-Map View: Unlike many trackers that require a separate app, Life360 allows you to see your people, pets, and valuables all on one unified family map. 

It uses a combination of LTE-M cellular data, Bluetooth, WiFi, and Multi-Constellation GPS for the most accurate location possible.

✔️ Impressive Battery Life: The device offers up to 14 days of battery life per charge under normal use. For added safety, it features a 6-month Low Power Reserve Mode, so you can still locate your pet even if the main battery runs low. It recharges easily via a standard USB-C cable.

✔️ Built for Adventure: With an IP68 water-resistant rating, the tracker is protected for up to 1.5 metres for 30 minutes. It is also bite-resistant and designed to withstand the tumbles and splashes of an active Australian dog’s life.

✔️ The Life360 Pet Finder Network: If your pet goes missing, you can leverage the power of the community. Life360’s millions of members act as a "safety net"—if a member passes near your pet, their app can securely and anonymously update the location for you.

✔️ Smart Safety Tools: Remotely activate a built-in LED safety light to spot your dog in the dark and receive instant Geo-Fence alerts the moment your pet leaves their designated safe zone.

✔️ Universal Fit: The lightweight device (only 33.7g) attaches securely to any collar up to 1.25 inches wide, making it suitable for a wide range of dog breeds and cats. 

✔️ Premium Protection with Life360 Gold: The prize also includes a one-year Life360 Gold Membership. This premium tier enhances the family tracking experience with additional features. Enjoy features for the whole family like crash detection and emergency dispatch, 24/7 roadside assistance, 30 days of location history and more.

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How to Enter

To be in the running to win this Life360 Pet GPS Tracker and Gold Membership prize pack, please complete the following steps:

1. Like our giveaway post (published 20/04/26) and follow our Facebook page and/or Instagram account.

2. The entry question: Tell us about a near miss or incident when you really needed a Life360 Pet GPS Tracker and Gold Membership, plus which colour (from the 3 available) do you prefer?

Entries should be submitted via our official Facebook or Instagram page.

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Terms & Conditions

• Dates: The competition will open Monday 20 April 2026 (6:00pm, AEST) and will close Monday 27 April 2026 (11:59pm, AEST).

• Eligibility: Open to Australian residents (18+) only.

• To enter: Like our post (20/04/26) and answer the prompt above via the Australian Dog Lover Facebook or Instagram page.

• Judging: This is a game of skill. Entries will be judged by the Australian Dog Lover team based on the most creative, informative, or heartfelt statement.

• Limits: Entrants may enter once.

• Delivery: Please allow 1-2 weeks for delivery directly from the company.

• Claiming: Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be redrawn.

• Privacy: The winner must be willing to share contact details and create a free Life360 account to facilitate the prize delivery and membership activation.

*Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.