With all the time frames of when phases/periods can impact your dog it is important to remember these are guidelines.
Fear phases can occur at various stages of a dog’s life, the first 8-10 weeks – why it is so important that nothing frightens your new puppy during the first weeks of your ownership as it can permanently impact on the puppy. The pup should be meeting people and children but supervision is paramount to ensure all goes well.
If the pup starts reacting to usual or new things by appearing scared or aggressive during this time all new introductions or experiences should be stopped for a week.
Do not punish.
Smaller dogs can enter these phases earlier than larger dogs as they mature quicker.
What behaviours might you see.
Cowering, running away, backing away, urinating, hiding or what humans tend to react negatively to – growling, barking, barring teeth, hackles up and stiffness.
Give them a week of space from whatever is bothering them, don’t force an engagement or punish, don’t use harsh or overly sympathetic words.
Further fear phases can occur between 4-6 months, nine months, 14-18 months, keep in mind that any change in behaviour during these times should be recognised and managed carefully.
Your pup may never experience an obvious fear phase, or only have one, some will have a few occurrences.
Be aware of the age of your pup/dog when behaviours change.
Management is very important, if done incorrectly it may lead to aggression problems later.
Some gentle successful training helps increase the dog’s self-confidence.
Learn some gentle training techniques with Bairnsdale and District Dog Obedience Club Inc.
More socialisation development phases in part three.
