29/10/2025
                                            Here is what happens in your Boxer brain during adolescence:
1. Frontal-lobe rewiring (the impulse-control centre)
The part of the brain responsible for self-control, decision-making, and focus is being remodelled.
This rewiring temporarily reduces their ability to think clearly when excited or stressed which is why your previously well-mannered pup suddenly âforgetsâ their training.
Itâs very similar to a human teenagerâs brain: feelings first, thinking later.
2. Dopamine changes
Dopamine (the âfeel-goodâ neurotransmitter) spikes during adolescence.
This makes them seek novelty and excitement, leading to risk-taking, selective hearing, and a drive to explore or chase.
Reward systems become less stable - things that used to motivate them (treats, toys) might suddenly lose their appeal.
3. Heightened emotional sensitivity
The amygdala (emotion centre) matures faster than the rational prefrontal cortex.
As a result, adolescent dogs react more strongly to triggers (other dogs, noises, visitors).
Fear periods can resurface - they might suddenly become wary of people or objects they used to ignore.
đ§  Their brain is being rebuilt.
So when your Boxer ignores recall or bounces off the walls, itâs not dominance,  itâs biology.
đ€ŻThey feel emotions more intensely.
Triggers hit harder. Things that never bothered them before might now cause barking or avoidance.
Itâs not regression - itâs sensitivity amplified.