Puppy Development
Lets give those puppies started.
The most critical stage in puppy development is between 7-14 weeks old. This is the prime socialization window where puppies develop their opinions and emotions toward different environments and stimuli. They learn how to accept their new world, learn what to expect, and how to act or react. So its never too early to start training with a professional!
My approach with puppies includes how to positively introduce them to new things, but not necessarily have them interact with these things right away. Throwing them into an uncomfortable situation can cause future issues. Contrary to popular belief puppies benefit most from going at their own pace and having new things paired with reinforcement to create a positive association. This does NOT include letting strangers and strangers dogs handle or interact with them.
Here are a few PUP Tips!
Don’t focus on the NO! I recommend not using this word at all! Show your pup alternatives to behavior you don’t like. This is a very easy technique we will cover together.
Puppies are adorable and hard to resist loving on constantly, but over-petting and cuddling can scare, frustrate, or excite them to an unhealthy emotional state. I practice the 1-2-3 rule with everyone, which is to lightly stroke your puppy 3 times and let the dog tell you if they like it or don’t like it through their body language. Duration petting is many times unknowingly practiced and owners may not see that the PUP isn’t enjoying the interaction. Learning to read body language and cues from your pet can be so empowering and important to help them feel confident and heard which creates trust.
Puppy kisses are the best, but may not always mean what you think. When a puppy kisses their human, it may be innocent and a sign of affection, but sometimes when puppies are being handled, they look up at you and lick your face frantically. They are actually asking you nicely to stop what you are doing. It’s their way of saying no thank you, which is also referred to as “kiss to dismiss". If you don’t recognize their signal, it can escalate to wigging, growling, and nipping.