THE SIX IMPORTANT STAGES OF PUPPY DEVELOPMENT

STAGE ONE:

Prenatal

(between fertilisation and birth)

Puppies will be made up of genetic code from grandparents and parents, however, the mother’s experiences during pregnancy could potentially affect a puppy’s health in the future. So, it is very important that you get as much information about their mother and her pregnancy before selecting a pup.

STAGE TWO: Neonatal (0-2 weeks)

In the first two weeks of a dog’s life, they depend entirely on their mother for food, warmth and cleanliness. They are very limited by the development of their senses, however, they can learn from their noses and the interactions they have, meaning human contact and handling is key at this stage.

STAGE THREE: Transitional (2-3 weeks)

During this period, puppies will build an awareness of their surroundings and their senses start to develop. Their ears and eyes start to open and vocalisations may be more prominent, particularly if they are trying to find their mother’s teat. They start to be able to regulate temperatures to some degree and start to urinate and defecate without their mother’s help. Teeth should also start to develop which means the pup will start weening from their mother and solid foods will slowly be introduced.

STAGE FOUR: Sensitive period (3-12 weeks)

At three to six weeks, puppies go through a sensitive period where they start to learn about new things and what they learn will help shape their future. Some puppies may develop slower than others, but it’s an important time for first introductions to the world. Between weeks eight and 10, the puppies cortisol levels (the stress hormone) are likely to peak so you need to be careful about how much and what you are introducing your puppies to during this time. It is best to introduce your puppy slowly to things such as sitting in a moving car, knocks at the door and the sound of household objects slowly and at their pace to prevent any fears developing. This is also a great age to introduce the collar and lead as your first steps towards training. Make sure they are fully vaccinated before mixing them with other animals.

STAGE FIVE:

The junior puppy stage (3-6 months)

In the first few days away from their mother and siblings you may find your puppy is a little vocal as they adjust to their new home. This is very normal, however, by spending as much time as possible with them for at least the first 2-3 weeks you can help provide reassurance and create that important attachment bond.

Teething can cause some issues around this time as puppies will chew almost anything! Those razor-sharp teeth may be tested on your hands too this is puppy biting and is very normal! Your puppy is learning so much at this stage and this is the best time to introduce your puppy into a training class. Puppies that attend classes are less likely to have behavioural problems in the future.

STAGE SIX:

Adolescence (6-18 months)

As your puppy approaches adolescence, they will experience a surge of hormones and they may push their boundaries and seem rather difficult to control at times. It’s important to go back to basics at this stage and exercise a bit more patience with their training - they need you to be their guide now more than ever, but it will get easier and most reach full maturity by two years of age.

A PUPPY’S NEEDS MUST BE MET AT EVERY SINGLE STAGE OF ITS DEVELOPMENT