When you adopt a puppy, your pet can be a bundle of fur you want to pick up and cuddle constantly. Before long, you'll want to take your new friend out for long walks and play fetch outside.
Except, you will need to find out about the middle steps. Sure, you know that puppies are cute little fur balls. But you need to figure out what to expect next.
Sound familiar? If so, keep reading. Here are the 7 stages of puppy development you need to know about.
Puppy development is an essential process of growth and learning for every pup. Whether your dog is a purebred or a mutt, it will go through seven puppy growth stages of development.
1. Neonatal Stage ( 0 to 2 weeks)
This stage of puppy development is critical when puppies are born. In this stage, puppies depend entirely on their mother for food, warmth, and protection. During this stage, the puppies will start to open their eyes and ears and respond to the noise around them.
It is also a critical time for socialization as the puppies will start to explore and form attachments with their littermates. During this period, puppies should remain with their mother and littermates. Proper care and nutrition during the Neonatal stage provide the foundation for the puppy's healthy development and shape its dog behavior.
2. Transitional Stage ( 2 to 4 weeks)
Physical growth accelerates during the Transitional Stage of a puppy's development from 2 to 4 weeks. Examples include the ability to hold their head up, open their eyes, begin to recognize voices, and have some control of their bowels and bladder. This stage also marks the start of weaning from their mother and therefore relies more and more on their environment to build confidence, learn, and grow.
This stage is also the time to establish a regular feeding schedule, start basic training, and provide a comfortable, safe, and creative space to sleep, distribute toys, and relax. Properly caring for the puppy in this stage will help develop techniques for raising your puppy for the upcoming months.
3. Canine Socialization Stage ( 4 to 8 weeks)
Canine socialization, stage 4 to 8 weeks, is the most critical period for a puppy's development. During this time, puppies acquire a "behavioral immunity," allowing them to accept new people and experiences. Socialization helps to select appropriate playmates, introduces puppies to new environments, and communicates how puppies should act around unfamiliar people.
This period is also when puppies start to develop a fear of strange noises and objects, so appropriate, you should provide positive experiences. Furthermore, puppies should be supervised while outside to ensure their safety and ensure they continue to receive proper socialization.
4. Human Socialization (8 to 12 weeks)
Human socialization in the 8 to 12-week window is the most critical time for determining a puppy's social behavior with people. During this time, puppies learn to recognize and accept humans as part of their social group and begin forming a bond with their family. It's also the time to help guide your puppy's behavior to create the foundation for healthy relationships with people.
From 8 to 12 weeks, puppies explore, discover, and learn basic commands and use their senses and brains to understand the world. They also become more active, begin showing signs of independence and dominance, and can become fearful of new experiences. It must be a time of socialization with humans to ease the transition into family life.
5. Pre- Adolescent Stage (4 to 6 months)
The pre-adolescent stage of puppy development occurs between 13-24 weeks. At this stage, puppies should have grown comfortable with their home and the people in it. They will also begin exploring their boundaries and skills within these surroundings and may push their limits.
Puppies at this stage will enjoy interactive play activities such as tugging and fetching. Appropriate socialization should be encouraged to ensure puppies are comfortable around other people and animals.
You should also teach puppies basic commands and etiquette. It will help them better respond to nonverbal cues and place trust in their people. In addition, you should implement gentle and consistent discipline in training for habits such as nipping and jumping and work on proper potty training.
6. Sexual Maturity (5 to 12 months)
At the 20-week mark, puppies reach sexual maturity. At this stage, puppies have an increased attention span and more vital senses. They also start to exhibit more robust exploratory behaviors and more significant curiosity.
They can engage in play and form stronger relationships with other puppies and humans. Also, puppies have to cope with learning to control their impulsive behaviors, such as barking or biting. They start to recognize their name and respond to commands.
Socializing your pup around this time is essential to ensure it builds strong relationships. As this stage progresses, more exercise is needed to help the puppy grow into a healthy and happy adult. Providing the right things for your pup during this stage helps them stay fit and healthy.
7. Senior stage (12 to 18 months)
By 18 months old, most puppies are physically mature and have reached their average adult size. However, some larger breed dogs, like some Mastiffs, may continue to grow until they are two or even three years old.
At this stage, a puppy's physical and mental development is usually primarily complete. They will have learned and developed skills for life, such as toilet training, basic obedience commands, and how to interact peacefully with other animals.
You may also wonder when do dogs stop growing. It's important to remember that when a puppy fully grows depends on its breed; larger dogs will mature slower than more miniature or toy breeds. There may be signs of them entering a cognitive decline typical of this stage. It is essential to continue to provide the puppy with new experiences, training, and stimulation during this time to ensure healthy mental and emotional development.
It is also beneficial for the puppy to socialize with others in a safe and controlled environment. With these tools, a puppy can continue to develop into a confident and well-rounded dog.
Learn the 7 Stages of Puppy Development
Puppy development is a critical process for both the pet and the owner. With patience and understanding, the 7 stages of puppy development can help you and your pup grow together in a healthy and loving relationship.
Have more questions? Reach out to your local veterinarian or Call Brasken Labradoodles for additional information and guidance!
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