Expecting a puppy to calm down is the human equivalent of expecting a toddler to sit quietly and play by themselves and not wreak havoc on absolutely everything in their path.
Yeah.
That’s not gonna happen.
It is 100% natural, normal, and good behaviour from puppies to be relentlessly energetic and playful.
What age do puppies calm down? Well, there is no defined age for when puppies calm down, at least not one that is always going to hold true. There are so many factors that influence a pup’s behaviour. Genes being at the top of the list.
Dogs that are bred for hunting or sport cannot really be expected to be happy by just lazing around all day. Its not realistic of us to expect that from dogs that love to run around and have fun and spend all their energy somewhere.
However, there are issues that arise in a household when puppies have a little too much energy for just about anyone’s liking. And there are certain things one can do to chill out your pooch and train them to be somewhat better.
Possible Maturity Achievement Time
Ordered from the smallest breeds to the largest:
• 12 months – Toy and small breed dogs like Chihuahuas.
• 12 – 18 months – Medium-size breeds such as Border Collie
• 15 – 24 months – Large-size breeds like German Shepherds.
• 24 – 36 months – Giant breeds like Great Danes
Nothing can be written in stone. Nevertheless, how calm and adulty a dog can get totally depends on their size, their genetics, breed, exercise, diet and training.
How To Help Your Dog Calm Down
Now that we have established puppies bouncing off the walls is a pretty normal thing to look forward to when getting them, let’s look at what can be done to help your pup in this boisterous phase of theirs.
Essentially find ways for them to spend their energy. Physically, mentally, and yes, even psychologically.
Training can provide all three of these energy outlets in one way or another. Dogs have to use their minds to focus on what you want them to do, combatting what they want to do. And in doing so the psychological aspect of building a friendship with your dog gets fulfilled as well.
Obedience Classes. A puppy socialization class is essential for healthy growth and development of your pup.
Toys. Much like kids, dogs enjoy themselves some toys too. Easiest way to motivate your dog to play with toys, is to use a food puzzle to make him work harder for his food. Provide incentives just as you would your children. Different kinds of chew toys can keep your dog entertained and well behaved.
Give Your Dog A Job. If your dog is suited to be a therapy dog, it could serve you well in the long run to train him in this way and get him to spend his energy by helping others.
Model Behaviour. Once again, behave the way you would want your kids to behave. If your dog picks up on your anger and yelling, this will most likely agitate him more. Try and keep calm and speak softly and gently to your dog, possibly even get him to revise some commands.
This can help mellow out your pup in the moment.
When To Expect What From Puppies
Energy levels are very dependent on your pup’s age. Below is a rough timeline of a growing pup.
Newborns To 10 Weeks
As newborns, they will probably not be a nuisance to you. You will be waiting for them to gain more energy and play with you as soon as possible. Well, joke’s on you. That is gonna happen in around 2 weeks and you are going to miss the newborn pup that was quiet (relatively) and sleepy the whole time.
They will be an actual ball of energy, possibly sucking in your energy as well. They will need constant entertainment and stimulation at this point. If not provided, the evident result will be misbehaviour. I’d get to entertaining if I were you.
This is when they shall also get alarmed by normal, everyday objects. Do not worry, your dog won’t end up having anxiety. This is normal. Starting training will be an excellent idea now.
10 To 16 Weeks
Training should obviously be continued still. They are still very feisty and can even bite or nip you or your children. That is normal behaviour too, just btw.
You will undoubtedly need endless patience. Puppies are very eager and will have a smaller attention span. They may forget rules and commands. Keep your training fun and short.
Another fun fact that starts at this age is teething. This causes pups to bite, most often to bring your attention to them, or just for fun. Using chew toys and completely disappearing from their presence when they start to misbehave is punishment enough. Attention is the best kind of reward for your pup.
Puppies will start to lose their first set of teeth around this age as well.
4 To 6 Months
If you thought your puppy was shy, this is the time when they will be proving you wrong. They could even show an interest in playing and fighting with you, and other dogs.
Keep a close eye on their behaviour at this stage. Any temper, fear, or anxiety must be addressed with a certified trainer. Doing so early on prevents a bigger problem in the future.
6 To 12 Months
It seems like the blink of an eye. You now have a pretty big furry friend. They are still a pup at heart and their energy levels are still off the charts.
Training and disciplining them is still crucial. More advanced commands and tricks shall be rewarding both for yourself and your canine.
Take them to the doggy park often. Socialization is just as important as exercise and training. It will keep them comfortable and friendly to everyone.
1 To 2 Years
Most middle-sized breeds will be done maturing at this stage and calm down now.
Your routine should be all set since a while now and everyone is happy and comfortable. Playing and obeying your commands as well as continuous training will guarantee a happy relationship between you and other family members.
Don’t forget to reward your doggo with his favourite treats for a job well done.
Summary
Much like humans, puppies calm down or mature at different rates and stages. However once the first 12 months have passed you’ll be looking at a completely different dog that what you started out with.
It’s vital that you focus on training your pal consistently and often, but most importantly enjoy your new best friend – he will love you eternally.