What To Do During Puppy Fear Period
In short, this means that, if something deeply frightens your puppy during this time, they can develop a specific phobia of that object or situation in adulthood.
What to do during puppy fear period. This helps a puppy feel more comfortable. There are chances that their puppy or adolescent dogs may be going through what is known as a fear period. Don’t force your dog to approach something that he fears.
The most critical period for puppy development is the age six to eight weeks (everything that happens prior to this is to do with setting the foundations of the animal & why it is essential that you have chosen a good breeder). Firstly, do not panic or react dramatically when a puppy exhibits fearful behavior. If a pup is scared to leave its crate, ignore her!
The first fear period, it is best to avoid traumatic experiences during this time such as shipping dogs on a plane and any other overwhelming experience. Things like vacuuming can still be accomplished, but just do it one room at a time while your pup is 8 to 10 weeks old. You may encounter some increased aggression and renewed testing for position and authority.
Try to control your own startle response to your dog's barking or lunging if possible. Do not force, punish or coddle your puppy if he exhibits fear. Have visitors toss good treats toward your puppy without approaching him or her.
The best thing that you can do when you encounter your pup struggling with a fear period is to not react at all to the cause of the fear. During a fear period, your pup is more vulnerable to feeling traumatized by bad experiences. For example, during the second fear period (four to six months), it is common for puppies to start barking at the trash can if it’s moved to a new place.
End on a positive note with lots of treating/praising. For example, if your puppy was attacked by a dog during the fear period,. What does a puppy’s ‘fear period’ refer to?