Developmental Stages Of Puppy Behavior - Spca Cincinnati (Page 2 of 2) in pdf

Developmental Stages Of Puppy Behavior - Spca Cincinnati Page 2

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By five to seven weeks they’re developing curiosity and exploring new experiences. They need positive

“people” experiences during this time.

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By seven to nine weeks they’re refining they’re physical skills/coordination (including housetraining)

and have full use of senses.

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By eight to ten weeks they experience real fear – when puppies can be alarmed by normal objects and

experiences, and need positive training.

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By nine to 12 weeks they’re refining reactions, social skills (appropriate interactions) with littermates,

and are exploring the environment, spaces, and objects. They are beginning to focus on people. This is

a good time to begin training.

3 - 6 months

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Most influenced by “littermates” (playmates now include those of other species).

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Beginning to see social relationships.

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Teething (and associated chewing).

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At four months they experience another fear stage.

6 - 18 months

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Most influenced by humans and dogs.

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At seven to nine months they go through a second chewing phase – part of exploring their

environment.

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Heightened exploration of assertion; testing limits, challenging human and dog relationships.

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If not spayed or neutered, beginnings of sexual behavior.

Developmental Stages Of Puppy Behavior - Spca Cincinnati Page 2