Breed: Larger breeds mature slower than smaller breeds.
Individual Dog: Some dogs mature faster or slower than others of the same breed.
Environment: A dog's environment and socialization can impact their development.
Generally, these milestones are often used as indicators:
* Physical Maturity: Most dogs reach full physical maturity around 1-2 years old, though some giant breeds may take up to 3-4 years.
* Behavioral Maturity: Dogs start showing more mature behavior around 6 months to a year old. This includes better impulse control, less chewing, and a more settled personality.
* Social Maturity: A dog's social maturity depends on their experience and training. It can take several years for a dog to learn social cues and appropriate behavior around other animals and people.
Think of "puppyhood" as a stage of development:
* Puppy Stage: From birth to around 6-12 months old.
* Adolescence: From around 6-12 months to 1-2 years old, a period of transition with increasing maturity and independence.
* Adulthood: From around 1-2 years old onwards, when the dog has reached full maturity and is considered an adult.
Remember that every dog is an individual. Some might act like puppies longer than others, and some might mature faster.