Development of dogs Flashcards
Neonatal Period
puppies/kittens are born helpless with both eyes/ears closed
Sensory input during neonatal period
touch and smell only for the first 2 weeks
When does the first socialization period begin
once their eyes/ears are open
Socialization period for puppies and its opportunity
3-14 weeks
it’s an opportunity to associate new things with positive rewards that can last forever
List some pros of socialization
gives puppies/kittens a pleasurable, safe experience, proper exposure so they’re comfortable in everyday scenarios
gives them the opportunity to interact with a variety of people/objects
positive experiences = behavioural vaccination
Juvenile period
end of socialization until sexual maturity
5-18 months (later for big breeds)
Adolescence period
onset of puberty through social maturity
increased need for physical/mental activity
common age for surrendering
2-3 years
Adult period
social maturity to senior
maintain training
Senior period
giant breeds - 6 years
large breeds - 7-8 years
small breeds - 10-11 years
Socialization at the vet
should visit the hospital at around 7-8 weeks
any that aren’t prosocial may need immediate effective intervention
provides a better experience
T or F: Fear periods are a normal part of puppy development
true
What happens during the fear period
puppies are more sensitive and aware of what’s around them which leads to them being overwhelmed
T or F: Even the most confident and well-socialized puppies can enter the fear period
true
How many fear periods are there?
2
Can puppies work through the fear periods
yes and they can become more confident
What can cause lifelong issues during the fear periods
inappropriate hanling
inappropriate responses
inappropriate exposure
First fear period
8-11 weeks
adjusting to a new family/exploring the world
good/bad experiences will leave a lasting impression
When do signs of tetthing normally start in puppies
12 weeks
Second fear free period
6-14 months
unexpected for new owners
small dogs hit this period faster
can be confusing because the puppy looks like an adult
confident/engaged/smart puppy is now insecure
Should we be sensitive to training needs during the fear period
yes, we should create situations where puppies can explore, meet new people without being forced to
Are fear periods misunderstood?
yes, they’re usually seen as being defiant or difficult when they are just fearful
T or F: You should allow your puppy to move away from what they’re scared of
true
What should we do when puppies look to us for guidance and objects that scare them
we should praise and reward them for looking for guidance, this help reinforce their confidence
T or F: We should let our puppy control how close they are to the thing that scares them
true - we should NOT be luring or pressuring them
How to handle fear period training
keep the sessions short/fun and end on a positive note
dont expect the puppy to overcome its fear asap
dont make a big deal out of the fear causing thing
let the puppy control the pace
T or F: There’s no shortcuts to training through a fear period which is why we shouldn’t rush it
true
T or F: Puppies end up taking in an overwhelming amount of information about the world, so they look to us for guidance
true
Puppy parties!
9-12 weeks of age with up to 8 puppies present
What is the purpose of puppy parties
intro session to puppy socialization class
is held in the veterinary hospitals in case of anything or daycares
includes possible topics about educating clients on preventing behaviour problems
Some prevention topics of bad behaviour
altering
parasite control
vaccination
nutrition
insurance
What do puppies gain from puppy parties
chance to socialize with other people/dogs
positive experience at a veterinary practice
chance to meet practice staff in a positive atmosphere
increase in the owners understanding of their needs
What do owners gain from puppy parties
chance to meet other puppy owners
chance to discuss their concerns with vet staff
valuable education about behaviour and physical needs
better behaved pets
What do practice staff gain from puppy parties
chance to inform clients of the varied practice facilities/services
chance to form closer relationships with clients
improvements in behaviour of patients while visiting vet hospital
puppy socialization classes
4-6 weeks
early training (vet practices/training schools)
appropriate socialization
encourages responsible pet ownership
What do puppy socialization classes offer
chances for owner education
improve client relations
education on health-related matters
education on behaviour
What do puppy socialization classes expose puppies to
novelty in the form of play equipment
different items from the owners’ home
people of all ages, genders, races
Why is socialization important?
lowers incidence of behaviour issues
promotes responisble pet ownership
contributes to the overall well being for pet/owner
