Changing Hairdo
In the article on 12-week-old puppies, we saw how the 12-week puppy still retained some of that soft, puppy hair. Now, one month later, at 16 weeks, you may start seeing a bit of adult hair. In the 16-week old Lab mix in the picture, you can see how she started showing the first zig-zag hair in the back as seen in many adult Labs. A month earlier this was not visible.
Bladder Control
Those bowels and bladders are now starting to gain more control. Where at 12 weeks, puppies were able to hold it for two to four hours, now they can hold it even up to about five hours. Most puppies at this age can hold it all night. Crate training should continue if this is the chosen method used for potty training.
At 16 weeks, puppies are ready to start some training.
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16 week old puppy learning some basic commands.
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There are many behavior changes taking place in these puppies. As usual, they will have boundless energy and will engage in lots of play. Puppy owners may feel overwhelmed at times by boisterous activity. This is a good time to keep the mind stimulated through training and appropriate play.
The following list will help you know what to expect from your puppy has he develops.
At four months old, pups are in full teething mode and chewing becomes an issue. Also, at this stage of development, puppies often exhibit fits of “the maddies” and periodically tear around the house, running across the furniture, practically bouncing off the walls. This is a release of their natural exuberance and is to be expected. At this age, puppies are “braver” and may get into things that they would have not done so when younger. This may be described as the pre-adolescent stage when puppies may show more independence.
What It’s Really Like To Have A 16 Week Old Puppy! Successful Daily Routine For My 16 Week Old Puppy
Hes still got a ways to go before he hits that teenage stage but developmentally hes about on par with your average human pre-teen.
His independence and boldness is growing by leaps and bounds and he just cant wait to explore the world around him…
… and hes not going to be too patient about waiting for you to come with him.
Although hes still keen to learn and will pick up new things quickly, he might show some stubborness or even (horror!) ignore you now and then!
Your little Rascal wants to show you hes a big boy and capable of doing his own thing.