Adolescent Training
(For dogs aged 5+ months)
Just like people, dogs go through a “teenage phase” shortly after puppyhood. Your dog’s adolescent phase will begin at around five months and continue until they reach maturity at about 12-14 months of age.
We specialise in dog behaviour training, helping local owners guide their adolescent dogs through this challenging stage. Adolescence is the final stage of reproductive development in which a juvenile becomes an adult. Like in all mammals, dramatic hormonal changes and a re-organisation of the brain occur during this stage. Together this means adolescence could be a vulnerable time for owner-dog relationships.
In this “teenage phase”, your puppy is becoming more independent, and as a result, some people describe a “relapse in basic obedience” or becoming “more stubborn” or “difficult” to control. The good news is that Melbourne Dog Trainers is here with the next two stages of adolescent dog training to set the path right as they enter their adult years.
Level 2 – Essential Manners
Level 3 – Advanced Manners
ENQUIRE NOWLevel 2 – Essential Manners
Continue your dog’s education from Level 1 – Puppy Preschool and continue their early education with adolescent training. Adolescent training courses here at Melbourne Dog Trainers are broken up into two levels. Level 2 – Essential Manners, and Level 3 – Advanced Manners.
From around 5 to 18 months of age, dogs enter adolescence — a time when they begin testing boundaries, gaining independence, and often becoming more easily distracted. You might notice a change in their focus, responsiveness, or enthusiasm for training, especially in busy or unfamiliar environments. That’s completely normal — and exactly what this course is here to support.
Our Essential Manners course is a 5-week program designed to strengthen your bond with your dog while developing calm, consistent behaviour in everyday life. You’ll be picking up all the skills, tips and tricks to effectively communicate, help build confidence and prevent some annoying habits from taking hold. We’re here to help you lay the groundwork for a well-mannered and connected companion. If you’re looking for guidance from an experienced dog behaviourist, our trainers provide practical support for every stage of development.
Class Content
The Adolescent Class course consists of 5 sessions which include the following;
Theory Class
- Adult-dog “Theory Class” (Zoom)
5 practical classes – Topics covered
- Leash manners (pulling)
- Polite greetings (unwanted jumping)
- Gate/door manners
- Hand targeting
- Management techniques
- Increasing engagement and attention around distractions
Location / Cost
Theory Class: Online via Zoom
Practical Classes: MDT Outdoor Training Grounds – 30 Redan Road, Caulfield, 3161
$260 (for new students)
$235 (postgrad – for students previously enrolled in other training with MDT)
Postgraduate discounts are available for attendees of other classes/private consults.
Our structured programs in behavioural dog training are designed to be effective, and focused on long-term results.
Level 3 – Advanced Manners.
Your next stage is a 5-week program that builds on the Level 2 Essential Manners course’ calm focus, communication, and leash skills and now we transfer these skills into more real world busier, more dynamic environments. You’ll work on refining loose leash walking, improving engagement around other dogs and people, and strengthening your handling in more challenging real-life scenarios.
The Advanced Manners course is designed for dogs who can focus around mild distractions and are ready to level up, expanding their skills in public spaces like footpaths, parks, and café settings. If you’re aiming for a calm, responsive companion in everyday life, this course is your next step.
We work as a trusted behaviourist for dogs, ensuring each program addresses both training goals and behavioural challenges.
The Essential Manners course is held over five sessions and includes a compulsory online Theory class.
LOCATION: MDT Caulfield Training Grounds – Caulfield North
ENQUIRE NOW
Class Content
The Adolescent Class course consists of 5 sessions which include the following;
Theory Class
- Adult-dog “Theory Class” (Zoom)
5 practical classes – Topics covered
- Loose leash walking
- Polite greetings with humans & dogs
- Independence
- Gate /door manners
- Intro to recall
- Road manners
Location / Cost
Theory Class: Online via Zoom
Practical Classes: MDT Outdoor Training Grounds – 30 Redan Road, Caulfield, 3161
$260 (for new students)
$235 (postgrad – for students previously enrolled in other training with MDT)
Postgraduate discounts are available for attendees of other classes/private consults
