Today I had an interesting discussion about a dog’s age and it’s maturity with a friend. He told me about a theory that was passed on to him. This is a general theory as there is always exemptions but I think it is very pratical to keep in mind.

A 1 year old dog is like a 12 year old in human terms, then a 2 year old dog is similar to a 24 year old human. For every year after that add on 4 years eg a 3 year old dog is 28.

I think this is a good theory to keep in mind when you have a young dog, as it put things in perspective why it is important to take training gradually and not to expect a young dog to have the maturity / stamina of a much older dog.

I personally don’t give a dog under 12 months a big work load, generally short sessions of work of say 5 / 10 minutes then a rest. This may be taking stock through a gate or yarding up. As the dog matures / gains confidence and experience this is increased.

It’s a lot better to have a dog that is keen than a dog that has lost it’s interest because it has been pushed too hard too early.