Understanding Puppy Development Stages

Puppy development is divided into four key stages: neonatal, transitional, socialization, and adolescence. The neonatal phase lasts from birth to two weeks, where puppies are mostly helpless and rely on their mother for warmth and food. In the transitional phase, from two to four weeks, puppies start to develop their senses as their eyes and ears open, allowing them to become slightly more independent and begin playful interactions with their siblings. Recognizing these phases helps owners understand the importance of proper breeding and socialization practices to mitigate future behavioral issues.