Stages of puppy development

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Just as the saying "a chip off the old block" often holds true for humans, it can apply to dogs as well. Puppies that are well-socialized are more likely to come from dogs that are well-socialized.

A basic part of a pup's socialization is based on their mother's attitude--relaxed or skittish--toward people. The way you interact with your new puppy can play a big role, too. Playing, petting, and talking with your pup can help him or her develop the "people skills" needed to be a good member of the family and the neighborhood.

While weaning for puppies can take place at six to seven weeks, they are still learning important skills from their littermates as their mother gradually leaves them for longer periods of time. Puppies that stay with their litter for at least three months are more likely to develop good social skills as they act as role models for each other.

When puppies are separated from their littermates too early, they often fail to develop key social skills, such as sending and receiving signals, the hierarchy process (who is in charge), how far to go in play-wrestling, what mouthing pressure is acceptable (inhibited bite), and so forth. Play is important for puppies. It increases their dexterity, social interaction, and helps them to learn their boundaries.

Through these interactions with their mother and littermates, puppies learn what being a dog is all about. During the first eight weeks of age, skills not acquired may be lost forever.

Most dogs are considered puppies for up to two years of age, though puppyish behavior may end sooner or last longer in some breeds. The stages listed below are essential and fairly constant. However, dogs are open to new knowledge and training well beyond the puppy years. Here are some general guidelines for puppies' stages of development.

The neonatal stage: Birth to two weeks

• The senses of touch and taste are immediately present after birth.
• The mother has the most influence over the puppy.

The transitional stage: Two to four weeks

• Mother and littermates continue to influence a puppy's behavior.
• The sense of hearing and smell develop, eyes open and the teeth begin to appear.
• A puppy begins to stand, walk a little, wag its tail, and bark.
• A puppy's eyesight is well-developed by the fourth or fifth week.

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