The puppy goes through several phases in its development, which are briefly described below.
In the first two weeks after birth, the blind and deaf puppy only shows genetically fixed behavior and hardly perceives environmental stimuli. But he can distinguish warm and cold and feel pain. His hunger drives him to seek out a teat and suckle. Ability to move in a coordinated manner slowly improves. The mild stress caused by the search for the teat is an important experience for the puppy: puppies that are teased by humans or given a bottle have a harder time dealing with frustration later on.
In the third week, eye and ear canals open.
Socialization and imprinting phase – experiences for a positive development
From the fourth week, the important socialization and imprinting phase begins, which can last up to the 16th week, depending on the dog breed. The puppy is now beginning to interact with its environment. He learns to coordinate his movements better and to control his elimination himself. The sleep phases become shorter, the contact between the siblings and with the mother improves. The puppy is completely open to new things at this stage. All living beings and things that he now experiences slowly and positively, he will not fear later either.