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Puppy Fear Periods
Did you know that during their first year, puppies go through 2 fear periods? A fear period is a phase where your pup may suddenly be more aware and cautious of their surroundings than usual. As a result they may start to develop fears around things and scenarios they were previously comfortable with.
The first fear period usually happens while your puppy is with their breeder, so you probably won’t experience it. However, the second fear period can happen between 6 – 14 months and may almost seem like a complete change in behaviour. Breeds that are also more genetically inclined to be alert or wary will often have more pronounced fear periods.
Fear periods don’t come with any obvious signs and can start as subtly as your dog hesitating to do something they were previously confident doing. Perhaps they start avoiding certain people or objects. Or they start barking and growling in certain situations. If this is not managed, it may cause your dog to have a negative experience which can impact them for the rest of their life.
If you notice these signs, go back to basics, and keep things simple for your pup. Limit the new places you expose your pup to and avoid letting your puppy meet new people or dogs you don’t know. Unless, you are familiar with the people and dogs and can guarantee how the interaction will go, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid it until the fear period is over.
Forcing your pup face first into situations they are uncomfortable with will not only cause stress but can end up having the reverse affect causing your pup to be reactive to those situations in the future. After all, we don’t like being forced to do something we’re not comfortable with either! Take a step back and allow your dog to observe and explore in their own time.
If there is no opportunity to allow your dog time to observe and adjust, then redirect focus on something that your dog enjoys. Practise some tricks, toss some treats on the ground for them to find or let them play with their favourite toy.
Most importantly, during this time, stay calm and confident. If you worry or panic your dog will sense that and it will only prove to them that there is something to be scared about. Instead confidently walk towards or walk past the situation to show your puppy there is nothing to be concered about.
While it is impossible to predict every incident or protect your puppy from everything, you can be proactive and recognise the early signs of a puppy’s fear period. Be patient with your pup during this time, don’t push too hard and take the time to help them build as many positive associations as possible.
