Socialization and habituation are crucial stages in the development of a puppy, setting the foundation for a healthy and balanced life as a pet. From the early weeks until around 9-10 weeks of age, breeders and future owners play a vital role in shaping a dog's development. In this article, we will explore the stages and recommended practices to promote proper socialization, providing a solid basis for the well-being and happiness of puppies in their new environment.
During the third week, puppies enter a transitional period, moving away from complete dependency on their mother and developing more adult-like behavior patterns. This phase marks the acquisition of thermoregulation control, and their eyes begin to open, although their retinas are not fully functional until the end of the fourth week. Although short, this period is crucial for sensory development, hearing, and locomotion. Breeders have a significant responsibility during this stage by implementing an early stimulation protocol that includes motor, thermal, and tactile stimulation. This protocol has shown incredible results, such as improvements in heart rate, stress tolerance, and disease resistance. It is also vital for puppies to have contact with humans and other animals as early as possible, as early exposure to these stimuli enhances their response in the future. Around the fourth week, puppies enter the "sensitive period," where they eagerly approach new objects, people, and other animals. This is a time of curiosity, exploration, and novelty, marking the beginning of the socialization process. It is important to continue with early stimulation during this period.
To promote mental stimulation, puppies should be provided with toys of various textures. These toys should be introduced as puppies start spending brief periods alone, preparing them for and acclimating them to the absence of caretakers in the future. Additionally, breeders should take advantage of this early socialization period to expose puppies to different people, children, and other animals whenever possible. It is crucial that these interactions are always positive and rewarding.
During the fifth week, the socialization process should continue, as its effects will greatly impact the puppy's future quality of life. If puppies do not have regular contact with humans during the third and fifth weeks, they may start to exhibit an increasing tendency for avoidance. After the fifth week, they also become more resistant to handling. Therefore, time is of the essence. Encouraging play, providing access to toys of different sizes and textures to keep them mentally stimulated and occupied, is essential. At this stage, future caretakers should bring a comfortable blanket to the breeder. The idea is that when the puppy goes to its new home, the blanket will carry the scent of the mother and siblings, as well as become familiar with the scent of the future caretakers and the new home, providing comfort during the transition. In this regard, caretakers should make regular visits to the puppy.
Entering the sixth week, there is still much to be done! Mothers typically begin to reject the puppies after the fourth week, not allowing them to nurse whenever they want, which teaches them to cope with frustration. This allows them to gain confidence, and by this time, they should be accustomed to spending some time alone. As they require more food, food dispensers can be introduced when they are left alone. Hand-feeding can also be initiated, which can be used to make the puppy follow us and as a positive reinforcement in challenging situations, such as when they experience different textures like rough, smooth, dry, or wet surfaces, such as grass, soil, sand, or pavement. Exposure to various sounds and objects should continue inside the house, including hair dryers, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, doorbells, and boxes. The same should be done outdoors, taking the puppy to different places to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the outside world, gradually acclimating them to these stimuli. If it is not possible to put the puppy on the ground, it should be carried. It is also essential to introduce the puppy to the car before taking it to its new home, as it will likely be transported in a car, and we want to avoid it being their first experience.
Approaching the seventh week, it is time for new caretakers to start preparing their homes for the arrival of the puppy by making a list of potentially hazardous objects and acquiring everything necessary to accommodate them. Exposure and habituation to different environmental stimuli should continue, but with caution. During the period from the eighth to the tenth week, puppies go through a "fear period," characterized by avoidance. They may easily become frightened and react with more fear to stimuli that previously did not elicit any response. This is a sensitive period that requires attention, avoiding overwhelming the puppy with new stimuli and stress.
By the end of the eighth week, it is usually the time for the puppy to go to its new home. New caretakers should ideally pick up the puppy in the morning, allowing it time to comfortably adjust to its new home environment. Having a secure playpen is essential and a must-have, as it will be the area where the puppy will spend most of its time. This space should be comfortable and divided into three areas: a sleeping area with a cozy blanket (the one brought from the breeder), a play area filled with toys of different colors, shapes, and textures, and an area for eating and drinking, considering the use of dispensers and frozen Kongs to alleviate itching and discomfort caused by rapid teething. Another separate area can be designated as a "bathroom," although it is preferable to start training for this early to prevent unwanted habits. Therefore, the puppy should always be supervised (even when in the playpen), and when that is not possible at all, it should be kept away from accessing the playpen's exterior. The puppy will show signs when it needs to relieve itself, such as persistent sniffing or circling, and it should be taken immediately to the appropriate spot. These moments will mainly occur in the morning upon waking up, after drinking, eating, or playing, and before going to bed at night. When the puppy relieves itself in the correct spot, the behavior should be reinforced with treats, praise, and rewards. To help the puppy feel comfortable in the playpen, hidden treats can be placed inside, and all meals should be provided in that location, building a positive association. The first night can be challenging for caretakers and especially for the puppy, so the playpen can be brought into the bedroom during the night to provide more comfort. As the puppy becomes more accustomed, the playpen should gradually be moved to the final location. A hot water bottle can be placed under the blanket to provide warmth.
During the ninth and tenth weeks, systematic socialization both inside and outside the house should continue. If any signs of stress or fear (typical of the "fear period") are observed, caution should be exercised, allowing the puppy time and space. It is advisable to introduce the collar, harness, and leash in a positive manner, creating positive associations, and begin training for "good manners," basic obedience, and leash walking. By this point, the puppy should have developed a strong and positive emotional bond with its caretakers. It is important to remember that a good relationship is based on cooperation and tolerance, aiming for the puppy to feel happy in the caretakers' company. The puppy does not "obey" but rather cooperates because it brings pleasure and rewards. Participating in suitable expos and puppy classes before the age of 12 weeks is also recommended, providing opportunities to prevent inappropriate or undesirable behaviors.
In conclusion, providing the best conditions for the development of your puppy is essential for their well-being and happiness. Proper socialization and habituation during the early stages of their life play a crucial role in shaping their behavior and preparing them for a healthy and balanced life as pets. By following the recommended practices and stages outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your puppy receives the necessary experiences and stimuli to thrive in their new environment. Remember to approach the process with care, patience, and a focus on positive reinforcement. By doing so, you will set the foundation for a strong bond and a fulfilling life together.
Braastad, O. (1998) Effects of prenatal stress on behaviour of offspring of laboratory and farmed mammals. ELSEVIER, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 61, 159-180.
Coppinger, R & Coppinger, L. (2002) A New Understanding of Canine Origin, Behaviour, and Evolution. University of Chicago Press Edition, Chicago.
Mann, S. & Roach, M. (2019) Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy. Blink Publishing, London.
O’Heare, J. (2017) Aggressive Behaviour in Dogs: 3rd edition. BehaveTech Publishing, Ottawa Canada.
Weinstock, M. (2008) The long-term behavioural consequences of prenatal stress. ElSEVIER, Neuroscience and BioBehavioral Reviews, 32, 1073-1086.
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