Critical Periods in your Puppies Psychological Growth
0 - 7 Weeks:
Neonatal, Transition, Awareness, and Canine Socialization. During this period the puppy learns about social interaction, play, and inhibiting aggression from mother and littermates. Puppies must stay with their mother and littermates during this critical period. Puppies learn the most important lesson in their lives---- they learn to accept discipline.
7 - 12 Weeks:
Human Socialization Period. The puppy now has the brain waves of an adult dog, but his attention span is short. This period is when the most rapid learning occurs. Learning at this age is permanent so this is a perfect time to start training. Also, this is the ideal time to introduce the puppy to different people, places, animals, and sounds in a positive, non-threatening way.
8 - 10/11 Weeks:
Fear Imprint Period. Avoid frightening the puppy during this period. Any traumatic, frightening or painful experience will have a more lasting effect on the puppy than if it occured at any other time period.
13 - 16 Weeks:
Seniority Classification Period or the Age of Cutting. Puppy starts to cut teeth and puppy begins to start testing who is going to be pack leader. You must discourage any and all biting (Biting is a sign of Dominance!) You must be strong and a consistant leader. Formal training must begin and such training will help you establish you leadership.
4 - 8 Months:
Play Instinct Period. Puppy may wander and ignore you. It is very important that you keep the puppy on a leash at this time. The way that you handle the puppy at this time determines if the puppy will come when called. Around 4 1/2 months the puppy gets their adult teeth...So some serious chewing is about to begin!
6 - 14 Months:
Second Fear Impring Period or Fear of New Situations Period. Dog starts to show fear of new situations or even familiar situations. They may be reluctant to approach someone or something new. It is very important that you are patient with the dog during this period.
1 - 4 Years:
Maturity Period. You may encounter increased aggression and renewed testing for dominance but remember to stay strong and consistant with your Boxer and this will not present a problem. Continue to train your dog during this period. You may face another Fear Imprint Period between 12 - 16 months of age.
