Week 5 Development

Puppies will soon begin experiencing their first fear period. It’s important to watch for the signs and symptoms of this, which may include tucking of a tail, backing away, leaving, etc. Upon any sign of fear, we make it a point to slow things down and not overdue training - it is most important that the new puppies are gradually and safely socialized to the world around them. You will continue being observant at home - they will have several periods like this as they develop. They don’t last long, but they are real.

• We keep on - keeping on with all the exercises and activities from the previous weeks as more practice will undoubtedly make for all the better behaved puppies long into the future. Much of it happens early morning when I am not ready for the day and wish not to be on the camera!

• Hopefully we are adding thought-provoking challenges as well as startling sounds to their daily life, again watching for any indications of fear and taking it easy as necessary for a few days.

• We will be increasing the amount of people interaction and handling with each puppy daily and continue separating them from one another for longer periods of time regularly as appropriate. Other animals will be introduced.

• They will be introduced to different surfaces - concretes, carpets, shiny floors, tiles, wood, gravel, bark, grasses, etc.. allowing them to play and explore.

• They will be encourage to play with friendly adult dogs, but provided an object like a chair for the puppies to hide under if they want to escape.

• All of these activities would be great to repeat in your home, several several times!