Adolescent Luna needed behaviour support
When Luna the German Shepherd transitioned from puppy to adolescent, her owners turned to Woodgreen for help with some tricky behaviours.
When Luna, the 13-month-old German Shepherd, started displaying some challenging behaviours, owner Josephine was referred to Woodgreen for some extra support.
Like many adolescent dogs, Luna was high energy and easily over excited but as a German Shepherd, her owners had noticed some breed specific behaviours like guarding and reactivity. Josephine had noticed that Luna was quite vocal, particularly when someone approached the house or could be heard from the garden.
Although Luna’s behaviours were quite normal for a dog of her age and breed, we know that managing the transition from puppyhood to adolescence and adulthood can be overwhelming for many dog owners.
We get quite a few people approach us for support with adolescent dogs. Puppy blues is a real thing and after a year of intense training, it can feel hard to think outside the box.
A practical solution
Community outreach officer, Serena, arranged a home visit to meet Luna, give her a quick health check, and learn more about the challenges she and Josephine were facing.
Serena found that Josephine was already doing a great job, but she was able to give some extra tips to help keep Luna’s mind busy. She explained the importance of mental enrichment, and activities that stimulate her brain.
To help Josephine, we sent out an enrichment pack filled with things like puzzle feeders and squeaky toys. Serena encouraged Josephine to use these toys outside, especially during times when Luna would usually be triggered by noise.
Patience and mental enrichment allowed Luna to have positive experiences around unfamiliar noises which helped to build her confidence as she progressed through adolescence.
And our team of experts are on hand to support Josephine and Luna as they continue to live life together.
