According to SCOTT and FULLER the 4- 8 month period in a young dogs life is referred to as SENIORITY CLASSIFICATION and defined by the dogs test for leadership very similar to teenaged children. The dog will test all members of his pack for weakness and then, if allowed exert his authority and move higher within the pack position. Turning a deaf ear is classic behavior in the period leading the dog to possibly disobey commands. It can last a few days or weeks depending on the skill of the owner and is again a test of the owner’s position in the pack.

New York Canine’s Silvia vom Lichtenwalde ( sixteen weeks)DSCN1396