PUPPY PHASES OF LEARNING

Pre-natal

Phase of learning

Choosing the right breeder of consider the history.

Training recommendations

Stressful or stress-free? This could affect training and temperament.


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0-4 weeks

Phase of learning

Reliant on mother

Transition period โ€“ senses develop

Training recommendations

Secure and safe environment, warmth, care and nutrition.


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4-12 weeks

Phase of learning

This can affect the general development if not managed correctly. Increasing contact with people, dogs and other animals at a steady pace. It is good to not overwhelm the puppy and remember your calm presence in new situations will also support your puppies socialisation. Rewards and positive experiences of new situations.

Training recommendations

Routines:

  • toilet training
  • food
  • crate training
  • mouthing redirection/inhibition
  • socialisation โ€“ step 1
  • basic commands (name - sit - come - no)
  • settling โ€“ the ignore

At 10-12 weeks post first vaccination, lead and collar, step 1 โ€œThe walkโ€


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3-6 months โ€“ Testing period

Phase of learning

  • Finding their voice - testing the boundaries
  • Adult teeth will appear
  • Continue socialisation
  • Life on your terms - communication - calm - confidence - consistent

Training recommendations

Training daily in this phase is essential.

This will give you and your pup the right tools to develop communication and confidence. Set expectations and boundaries.

Longer walks and stimulation games.

Leave - stay - down - heel - yes/ok


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6-18 months โ€“ Adolescence

Phase of learning

The teenage brain.

Hormones and sexual maturity from 9 months for smaller dogs.

Breed specific behaviours can emerge around 10 months โ€“ resource guarding and herding.

You may or may not see a variety of unwanted behaviours. It is important to maintain training and correct socialisation to avoid future problems.

Most will pass as the dog matures.ย 

Training recommendations

Continue to build on fluency of foundation commands.

Build in more advanced combination commands

Ensure appropriate exercise and work in relation to breed.

Recall is key to safety. ย 

Maintain positive rewards โ€“ ditch the bowl.


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Fear periods โ€“ 8-10 weeks / 5-7 months / 9 months / 14-18 months

Phase of learning

You control the danger.

Remain calm and provide positive experiences during this time.

Stay calm and matter of fact in any potential negative one. ย 

Training recommendations

Look for the signs and be aware of or maybe avoid new situations for a week or so. Avoid the vet during a fear period if possible.

Learn strategies to create confidence and not reinforce a fear if one presents itself โ€“ do not pick your dog up!


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2.5+ years โ€“ Adult dog

Phase of learning

Some past negative experiences can re-emerge and trigger some anxieties that continue into adulthood and may need additional support, especially if training hasn't been consistently maintained.ย