Before diving into the stages, we need to remember four key factors that shape a dog’s behavior:

Expectations – What we expect from our dog vs. what we expect from ourselves as an owner.
Skill – How clearly we communicate what you want.
Environment – Where we’re asking for the behavior (because environment always wins).
Will – Our dog’s motivation, built through games, rewards, and relationship.

Understanding development makes our expectations become more realistic and training becomes a lot smoother.

Neonatal (Baby) Period (0–2 Weeks)

At this stage puppies are completely dependent on their mother for warmth, feeding, and even elimination. Their senses are not fully developed, and human interaction is minimal at this stage. This period is all about survival and basic care.

Transitional Stage (2–4 Weeks)

Eyes and ears begin to open. Puppies start walking, vocalizing, and exploring.

Gentle, positive human interaction during this time lays the foundation for confidence later in life.

First Socialization Period (4–7 Weeks)

This is where puppies learn crucial social skills from their littermates:

Bite inhibition
Reading body language
Self-control through play

They also begin naturally seeking separate areas for pottying.

Second Socialization Period (8–12 Weeks)

This is a critical stage.

Puppies continue learning discipline through play with their mother and littermates. Ideally, puppies go to their new homes between 10 to 12 weeks, as staying with the breeder longer supports healthier development.

This period may also include the first fear phase, where new experiences feel overwhelming. Bonding games, positive exposure, and gentle confidence building are essential.

Juvenile Period (3–6 Months)

In this period, dogs develop confidence and their curiosity skyrockets.

You shouldn't mistake this independence for stubbornness as it’s normal development. Puppies test boundaries, explore more, and get easily distracted.

Keep training fun, lower expectations in distracting environments, and reinforce basics consistently.

Adolescence (6–18 Months)

In adolescence, hormones start to kick in and behavior may shift. Listening skills might seem to disappear.

This stage requires patience and education. Adjust your expectations, increase structure, and strengthen motivation through engagement games.

Maturity (18 Months–3 Years)

Physical maturity is reached, but emotional growth continues.

Now is the time to prioritize emotional well being, relationship building, and advanced training goals.