Lecture 28: The Basics of Puppy Behavior and Problem Prevention

When is the prenatal period?

conception-birth

When is the neonatal period?

0-13 days

When is the transitional period?

14-20 days

When is the socialization period?

3-12(14) weeks

When is the juvenile period?

3-6 months

When is sexual maturity?

6-7 months

when is social maturity?

reached between 1.5-4 years

What happens during the neonatal period?

eating and sleeping

What happens during the transitional period?

eyes open, tooth eruption, able to stand, learn to avoid pain, no emotional learning

What ends the transitional period?

startle response

When does the avoidance response develop?

socialization period

Isolation during what period leads to learning deficits and fear response?

socialization period

When is the fear period?

8-10 weeks

When does sexual interest begin?

juvenile period

When does teething occur?

juvenile period

What is canine adolescence?

time between sexual and social maturity

When do fearful puppies tend to become biters?

social maturity

What does illness during the socialization period predispose dogs to?

aggression problems, fear of strangers and children, separation-related problems

When do dogs begin to offer play behaviors?

socialization period

What occurs at puppy prep school?

socialization, housetraining, crate training, mouthiness, manners

What makes a puppy kindergarten appropriate?

observe class yourself, puppies 4 months of age and younger, appropriate sanitation, appropriate supervision, health screening

How do we prevent long lasting fear of the veterinary clinic?

associate food with everything

What should be done instead of punishment when housetraining?

interruption, stop behavior without scaring the dog

When should reward for elimination outside be given?

Immediately

Why should you crate train?

Housetraining, safety, independence, a place to escape

How should mouthy behavior be discouraged?

remove all attention in response, avoid rough or high arousal play, provide appropriate chewing outlets

What is reluctance to sit or lay down indicative of?

Pain, anxiety

If a puppy will not eat food without the owner present, won't settle in crate, or vocalizes excessively in crate or home alone, what can this be an indication of?

early separation or confinement anxiety