Puppy Development Fear Periods
The most critical period for puppy development is the age six to eight weeks (everything that happens prior to this is to do with setting the foundations of the animal & why it is essential that you have chosen a good breeder).
Puppy development fear periods. During fear periods, puppies become more sensitive and aware of the world around them. This period is when the most rapid learning occurs. Most people realize that puppies have a fear period, however are unaware that there are actually up to 4 recognised fear periods.
Puppies will experience two different fear periods before reaching adulthood. Try to avoid frightening the puppy during this time, since traumatic experiences can have an effect during this period. The puppy responds only to warmth, touch, and smell.
If the puppy perceives an event as traumatic, he may generalize it and it could affect him for the rest of his life. Most dog owners will never witness this very first fear period considering that most puppies go to their new homes at 8 weeks, so it's worth noting that when referring to the first fear period, it's the one taking place at 8 to 10 weeks as described below. Great care should be taken to avoid fearful reactions during this stage.
Many will go through a fearful time when they begin teething between four and five months of age. It’s so useful for guardians to know that this stage is temporary and that it is completely normal. Puppy development week by week starts as soon as your puppy is born.
This also coincides with a very critical socialization period. Fear periods are a normal part of puppy development, but they also can be overwhelming for dogs. Growth and development continues into the adolescent phase, beginning at 5 to 6 months and extending up until your pup is 18 months old.
He cannot regulate body functions such as temperature and elimination. The puppy now has the brain waves of an adult dog, but the attention span is short. Eyes and ears are open, but sight and hearing are limited.