Stan Rawlinson ( Doglistener) is a Dog Behaviourist
and Obedience Trainer who has owned and worked dogs for over 25 years, starting
with Gundogs then moving on to the behavioural and
obedience side of Pet Dogs in 1996. He now has a successful practice covering
0 to 7 Weeks
Neonatal, Transition, Awareness, and Canine Socialisation. Puppy is with mother
and littermates. During this period, puppy learns about social interaction,
play, and inhibiting aggression from mother and littermates. Puppies must stay
with their mother and littermates during this critical period. Puppies learn
the most important lesson in their lives--they learn to accept discipline.
7 to 14 Weeks
Human Socialisation Period.
The puppy now has the brain waves of an adult dog, but his attention span is
short. This period is when the most rapid learning occurs. Learning at this age
is permanent so this is a perfect time to start training. Also, this is the
ideal time to introduce the puppy to things that will play an important part in
his life. Introduce the puppy to different people, places, animals, and sounds
in a positive, non-threatening way.
8 to 10 / 11 Weeks
Fear Imprint Period. Avoid frightening
the puppy during this period. Any traumatic, frightening or painful experience
will have a more lasting effect on the puppy than if it occurred at any other
time in its life.
13 to 16 Weeks
Seniority Classification Period or The
Age of Cutting. Puppy cuts teeth and apron strings! Puppy begins
testing who is going to be pack leader. You must discourage any and all biting
because such biting is a sign of dominance! It is important that you are a
strong and consistent leader. Formal training must begin. Such training will
help you establish your leadership.
4 to 8 Months
Play Instinct Period. Flight
Instinct Period. Puppy may wander and ignore you. It is very
important that you keep the puppy on a leash at this time! The way that you
handle the puppy at this time determines if the puppy will come to you when
called. At about 4-1/2 months, the puppy loses his milk teeth and gets his
adult teeth. That's when puppy begins serious chewing! A dog's teeth don't set
in his jaw until between 6 and 10 months. During this time, the puppy has a
physical need to exercise his mouth by chewing. PTO
6 to 14 Months
Second Fear Imprint Period or Fear of New Situations
Period. Dog again shows fear of new situations and even familiar
situations. Dog may be reluctant to approach someone or something new. It is
important that you are patient and act very matter of fact in these situations.
Never force the dog to face the situation. DO NOT pet the frightened puppy or
talk in soothing tones. The puppy will interpret such responses as praise for
being frightened. Training will help improve the dog's confidence.