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 โThe 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