Skip to main content

Growing up: How to tell when your dog is an adult

If you’re thinking that your puppy is growing up too fast, we can relate. You’re not the only one wishing they could make time stand still to enjoy puppyhood just a few months longer. Yet, growing up is a natural milestone in a dog’s life — and a nice one to be part of. While the puppy stage is uniquely joyful, so are the adult years to follow.

Although your puppy changes in appearance and temperament every day, the transition from puppy to adult can be subtle. Your puppy will mature in some areas much sooner than in others. So, when is the official end of puppyhood? Here’s how to know when your good boy is now a man.

four-puppies-in-a-wooden-box
https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Rita+Kochmarjova

Physically

One of the easiest ways to identify an adult dog is by his physical appearance. Yet, even this is a process. Your puppy’s physical appearance begins taking on adult traits as early as his sixth month but may not completely finish until he is 2 years old. Here are common signs he’s starting to grow up.

He’s lost all his puppy teeth

Puppies have about 28 baby teeth by the time they are weaned from their mother and begin losing them when they are 12 to 16 weeks old. By the time a puppy is 8 months old, all his puppy teeth probably have been replaced with 42 adult teeth.

The good news is, that’s when the teething usually stops. Make sure your puppy has appropriate chew toys in each stage of development so that if his chewing becomes a habit when he’s a puppy, he doesn’t destroy your clothes and furniture as an adult.

His coat has changed

A puppy’s coat is one single layer of huggably soft fur. As he ages, this is replaced by a thicker, stiffer adult coat. Most puppies start losing their baby fur at 6 months of age; however, some don’t complete the process for up to two years. And losing puppy fur may be less noticeable in nonshedding breeds, like terriers and Labradoodles.

He stops growing

Depending on the size and breed of your puppy, he will reach his adult size anywhere between 1 and 2 years of age. Smaller breeds, like Chihuahuas, stop growing around age 1, while larger breeds, like golden retrievers, can continue growing for as long as two years.

Sexually

You may not think your puppy is ready to become a parent at 6 months of age, but the reality is, he’s fully equipped. At this age, your dog’s sex organs are completely developed and he can reproduce.

If your dog won’t be involved in any breeding activities, now is a good time to get him/her neutered or spayed. Not only will this prevent unwanted litters of puppies, but it also prevents the risk of developing serious health problems, such as uterine infections and breast tumors in females, and testicular cancer and some prostate problems in males.

jack-russell-puppy-in-blue-flowers
https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Olesya_Nickolaeva

Emotionally

Your sweet puppy will probably become a different dog around the age of 6 months, when his hormones kick in and he starts acting like a teenager. The good news? That stage, too, shall pass! Smaller dogs typically mature faster than larger dogs, but most are emotionally mature by the time they are 2 years old. Here are some signals your pup’s temperament is changing.

His attention span is longer

Puppies are constantly learning, but they have a supershort attention span. The adolescent stage, which can last anywhere from six months to two years, is another period in which many dogs find it hard to focus and pay attention. Most dogs over the age of 2 are more attentive and responsive than they were as puppies or adolescents.

He exhibits “adult” behavior

Healthy adult dogs are calm and less fearful of unfamiliar people and places. Destructive behaviors, such as chewing on clothes and furniture, have diminished. They are also less playful, don’t eat as much, and are more willing to settle down.

Of course, these are generalizations. Every dog is different. Large breeds typically mature much slower than smaller breeds, physically as well as emotionally. Even so, if you think your puppy isn’t growing like he should or exhibits concerning behavior, talk to your veterinarian or a dog behavioral specialist.

Interacting with your puppy frequently and using positive reinforcement in every stage of his development will help him grow into a happy, healthy adult dog. Although we can’t keep them puppies forever, we can shower them with the same level of love and care throughout their lifetime.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Debbie Clason
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Debbie Clason's work has appeared in Family Life Magazine, Sports Illustrated, The Lutheran Witness, Massage Magazine…
6 summer bandanas for your dog to liven up the season in style
Will your dog go for the tropical palm tree bandana or prefer to stick to a muted solid?
Four Australian shepherd dogs sitting while wearing bandanas

You and your dog can rock out with just a simple accessory: bandanas for dogs. Because these only go around their necks like a collar, most pups don't mind, and it can even be fun for both of you. This summer, go all out by choosing a themed style for your animal (or take it another step further and match your outfits).
Beach
Hitting up the shore this summer? Your dog can look the part, too. Dress your pup up with a tropical-themed bandana for an easy way to get beach chic. This outfit can also be functional since you may want to protect them from the sun. Try out a slightly larger size and block a few rays.
Travel
If your little bud comes with you on vacation, get extra into your adventures by decking them out in the style of your destination. Perhaps you've decided to hit up "The Big Apple" and can dress them in an "I Love NY" bandana or you want to give them a Disney princess-themed scarf for a trip to sunny Florida.
America
Just in time for the Fourth of July, stock up on your America-inspired outfits. Flag code states that you should never wear the symbol but you can instead look for a red, white, and blue design. Alternatively, find other ways to celebrate the country by using patriotic images, such as national parks or historic monuments.

National Pet Month
The month of May is a time to celebrate pets. Take this opportunity to highlight your favorite cause like National Dog Mom Day (May 14) or National Rescue Dog Day (May 20). Another idea is to get your pet's name embroidered on a bandana of your choice to make it unique to them.
Animals
Instead of putting the spotlight on pets, try finding another animal to adorn your furry friend. They might look cute in a cat-themed bandana or perhaps one covered in unicorns. No matter what you decide, your fur baby will love being able to support their fave species (after dogs, of course).
Colors
Bandanas feature bright colors and patterns, but you can also stick with more muted pastels or neutrals to match your animal's coat. For example, a bright yellow could look especially boss on a black Lab for contrast or a beige might blend in nicely on a Shiba Inu. Don't forget to try rainbow and tie die, which is a reliable staple.

Read more
All about the incredible greyhound dog
Love the greyhound dog breed? Here's what to know about these canines
A greyhound on a fuzzy rug

The greyhound dog breed has a sweet but noble demeanor. These large-sized hounds are built for speed with a narrow, aerodynamic body perfect for running down prey. History traces these dogs back to ancient Egypt.

Today, the pups like to track down treats. However, the breed has been at the center of controversy -- through no fault of their own. Because of their speed, they’ve been used as race dogs, a practice now illegal in most states in the U.S.

Read more
7 Japanese dog breeds that could be your perfect pet
Getting to know Japanese dog breeds: Shiba Inu, Akita, and more
A black and white Japanese Chin stands outside in the grass raising one paw

If you were to ask someone to name a Japanese dog breed, we'd be willing to bet that they'd mention Shiba Inu dogs first. And for a good reason! Shiba dogs are becoming increasingly popular around the world, especially after one lucky "doge" went viral in 2013. But they're not the only breed worth mentioning.
There are more than seven Japanese dog breeds out there, of course, but we chose these seven so you can compare and contrast these pups' unique qualities. From gentle giants to teacup cuties and everything in between, there just might be your perfect fit right here on this list!
Here are seven Japanese dog breeds we know and love.

Shiba Inu dogs are quite possibly the most famous Japanese breed, thanks to a meme
Whether you knew it at the time or not, you've probably seen a picture of the famous "doge" internet meme which features a Shiba Inu giving some major side-eye. And as it turns out, this infamous sass can be common in this self-assured breed!

Read more