Young Adult
Settles into consistent personality. Full of energy and enthusiasm. Well-socialised dogs are reliable and predictable. May still have adolescent bursts of energy.
Nutritional Needs
2 meals per day of high-quality adult formula. Portion control to maintain ideal body condition score. No more puppy food — higher calorie density promotes obesity.
Exercise & Activity
45–60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Great age for advanced sports — agility, fetch, scent work, hiking.
Health Concerns at This Stage
dental disease if not brushed regularly
obesity from overfeeding
anxiety if under-stimulated
Common Behaviour Issues
excess energy without enough exercise
boredom-driven destruction
leash reactivity
Special Care
Annual vet wellness checks. Dental scaling if recommended. Maintain consistent exercise and enrichment schedule. Introduce longer solo time to build independence.
Training Focus
Best age to advance training — high energy, peak trainability. Solidify all basic commands. Address any problem behaviours now before they become entrenched habits.
Best age to advance training — high energy, peak trainability
Solidify all basic commands
Address any problem behaviours now before they become entrenched habits
Use punishment or harsh corrections
Train for too long in one session
Skip socialisation opportunities
Repeat commands the dog doesn't yet know
Shop gear for this life stage
Harnesses, collars and leashes suited to your dog's current needs