Critical Periods in Canine Development

In 1953, Drs. John Paul Scott and John Fuller were the first scientists to document the critical developmental periods of dogs. All dog breeds go through similar stages of development. Small dogs may reach physical and sexual maturity faster than larger dogs, thus accelerating the stages slightly. A happy dog will transition successfully between these stages. Dogs that do not transition may have a multitude of behavioral problems.

  1. Neonatal

    • The neonatal stage of development involves the first 13 days of a dog's life. During this period, the puppy cannot regulate its own body temperature and require the mother's attention. Mild stresses introduced to the puppies during this time lead to dogs that more competitive and handle stressful situations better later in life. These stresses include weighing the pups daily on a cool surface, pinching the skin between the toes and holding the dog firmly on its side for a few seconds each day.

    Transitional Period

    • The transitional period is between days 13 through 20 after the dog is born. The pup's eyes will be opened and the dog will experience more things. During this period, it is important to add stimuli into the pup's life, including items such as plastic milk jugs and knotted towels. It also is the first socialization opportunity for the pup, and it is suggested the pup be introduced to friendly cats during this period of time. Continue handling, weighing and talking to the pup daily.

    Awareness Period

    • The awareness period happens between days 21 and 23, and marks a rapid increase in the pup's sensory development. During this period, new stimuli, such as flooring surfaces like concrete, hardwood and linoleum, can be introduced. The pups should be introduced to these surfaces for two minutes each day, and in pairs to reduce stress. The pups need to stay with the mother during this time, and major changes should be avoided, such as moving the whelping box, which is where the pup spends most of its time.

    Canine Socialization

    • From weeks three through seven, the process of canine socialization begins. This is the time that a dog learns that it is a dog. Do not wean puppies during this stage, and let the mother spend as much time as she wants with the pups. This is a good time to introduce other adults and children to the pup. Give one-on-one attention away from the litter later in this stage to prepare the pup for separation. A separate box should be added to the pup pen to separate sleeping and play areas. This will make housebreaking the pup later easier.

    Human Socialization

    • The puppy is ready for a new home between seven and 12 weeks old. Introduce the puppy to as many people as possible for it to become comfortable around them. Puppies can begin classes for obedience and socialization. The pup will have a limited attention span, so formal obedience training is not appropriate during this stage.

    Fear Impact Period

    • The period between eight and 12 weeks is another critical period that overlaps with the human socialization period. Negative physical and psychological experiences during this time period can stay with the dog for the rest of its life. All experiences should be fun and positive. Do not have elective surgeries and avoid going to the vet unless necessary, and then try to make it fun for the pup.

    Seniority Classification

    • During the seniority classification, which lasts from weeks 10 to 16, the pup is trying to determine who is boss. During this time, intense competition breaks out between litter mates if they are still together. Games such as tug of war, rough housing and other activities testing the strength of the pup should be avoided. The owner needs to provide structure, control and leadership to the pup during this period. If not, the pup will think it rules things, which means obedience may become an issue.

    Flight Instinct Period

    • This four-month period is a time when most obedience schools get the most calls. The pup is still determining who is boss and, like an unmindful teenager, will do what it wants. It's common for the dog not to come when called, and it may even run away. The pup goes through a chewing stage as its adult teeth are beginning to come in. It is important to have appropriate toys, such as bones, for the pup to chew on instead of the furniture.

    Second Fear Period

    • The pup will go through a second fear period between six and 14 months of age. These fear periods are associated with the growth spurts in the animal. During these periods, the dog will become shy or fearful around unknown people or situations. It is best to ignore these situations and let the dog work it out. Do not reinforce the behavior. For example, petting and trying to calm the dog down actually reinforces the shy and fearful behavior, causing to happen more frequently.

    Maturity

    • Maturity refers to the sexual maturity of the dog and is reached after one year. Dogs between one and two years of age may have higher aggression and be more territorial. The dog may also try to dominate owners during this stage. The dog should be kept in a crate when the owners leave until the dog can prove over short periods of 15- to 20-minute trial runs that it will not destroy the house. The dog needs to be exposed to new people and new situations to keep it socialized and happy.