While much canine research focuses on the socialization period, a new study turns attention to the earlier transitional period—a brief but crucial phase when puppies begin to see, hear, and move independently. Published in the Macedonian Veterinary Review, researchers led by F. Pirrone observed 25 puppies across several litters to assess the timing and expression of early behaviors and sensory milestones.
Daily one-hour video recordings were conducted between postnatal days 10 and 21, capturing a range of puppy activities including sleeping, suckling, exploring, and allogrooming. Milestones such as eyelid opening, startle response (linked to hearing development), and the ability to stand on either front or hind legs were also tracked.
Results revealed that both breed and season of birth significantly influenced the frequency and duration of behaviors, as well as the age at which sensory and motor milestones occurred. Gender also played a role in the rate of gross motor development. For instance, puppies born in certain seasons showed delayed or advanced development, while some breeds consistently reached physical milestones earlier than others.
These findings may be crucial for enhancing early-life care standards, behavioral interventions, and environmental enrichment for puppies. Tailoring rearing practices based on breed-specific and seasonal developmental profiles could help young dogs better adapt to novel stimuli and reduce stress in later stages of life.
Source: F. Pirrone, L. Pierantoni, V. Albizzati, and M. Albertini. 2018-10-01. “Different Dynamics of Sensory-Motor Development and Behavior During the Transitional Period in Puppies: Preliminary Results.” Macedonian Veterinary Review, Volume 41, Pages 153–161.
