Puppy Development Stages Flashcards
7 cards from real Dog Training practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Puppy Development Stages flashcards as text
During which developmental period do a puppy's eyes typically open?
Answer: Transitional period (2 to 3 weeks)
Eyes usually open during the transitional period, around 10 to 14 days of age.
What is the primary sense a neonatal puppy relies on to find its mother?
Answer: Smell and touch
Neonatal puppies are born blind and deaf, so they navigate using smell and touch.
At what age does a puppy generally begin to hear sounds?
Answer: Around 2.5 to 3 weeks
Hearing develops during the transitional period, near the end of the third week.
Which period is considered the most critical window for socializing a puppy?
Answer: 3 to 12 weeks of age
The 3-to-12-week socialization window shapes lifelong responses to people, animals, and environments.
Why is it generally recommended that puppies stay with their litter until at least 8 weeks?
Answer: To learn bite inhibition and social cues from littermates
Littermates teach bite inhibition and canine social skills that prevent later behavior problems.
What behavior typically signals the start of weaning in puppies?
Answer: Beginning to eat solid or softened food around 3 to 4 weeks
Weaning begins around 3 to 4 weeks as puppies start sampling solid food alongside nursing.
A puppy that startles easily and avoids new objects at 8 to 11 weeks may be experiencing what?
Answer: A normal fear-impact period
The first fear period around 8 to 11 weeks is normal, and gentle positive experiences help puppies through it.