How should training adapt to different growth phases?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.You must adjust your approach to training your puppy during its developmental stages to match its evolving cognitive capabilities. What motivates and works in socialization becomes frustrating for adolescents. You adapt your techniques to avoid confusion and promote reliable obedience as they evolve from puppy to adult. The process develops a well-mannered and dependable companion.
Socialization Phase (3-12 weeks)
- Five-minute sessions prevent mental fatigue
- Focus on positive exposure to handling and sounds
- Reward curiosity with high-value treats
- Avoid punishment creating fear associations
Juvenile Phase (3-6 months)
- Extend sessions to ten minutes reinforcing consistency
- Establish boundaries using redirection not scolding
- Master basic commands like sit and stay
- Introduce crate training for confinement comfort
Adolescence (6-18 months)
- Fifteen-minute drills build impulse control
- Challenge with advanced skills like heel and leave-it
- Address hormonal testing of boundaries calmly
- Incorporate mental stimulation puzzles
Reinforcement techniques change from one developmental phase to another. During socialization, puppies respond best to immediate food-related reinforcement. Juveniles require praise every single time the puppy provides a desired behavior. In contrast, adolescents require variable rewards, such as playing with their puppy. This fuel continues to keep the puppy engaged as motivation changes.
As skill progresses, complexity increases. Start with naming during socialization. Move to leash walking in juveniles. Adolescents can be challenged with distraction-proofing exercises. Ensuring the difficulty matches the cognitive ability helps prevent frustration from either side.
Traits inherent to each breed require adjustments to technique. Breeds such as herding dogs benefit from being redirected from chasing binges at an early age. Guardian breeds require some socialization to prevent becoming overly protective. Scent hounds benefit greatly from nosework games. Ensure that you address traits embedded in each of the phases.
Sidestep familiar pitfalls associated with extended experiences that can result in overwhelm. Look for signs of stress, such as yawning and avoidance behaviors. Try to end with a positive experience before frustration sets in. Always keep in mind that consistency is more important than time across all areas of growth.
Read the full article: Puppy Growth Stages: Complete Development Guide
