A timeline of neurological, behavioural, and emotional phases in puppies from birth to 16 weeks – based on modern canine research and real-world training application.
Developed by Sebastian Stroeller (Zoeta Dogsoul, Chiang Mai), this resource helps trainers, fosters, and owners guide early-stage behaviour with intention.
| Age Range | Milestones |
|---|---|
| 0–2 weeks | Neonatal phase – no vision, no hearing, touch only |
| 2–3 weeks | Transitional phase – eyes & ears open, startle reflex, first social signals |
| 3–7 weeks | Socialization phase – peak learning, start of environmental imprinting |
| 8–12 weeks | Critical period – emotional memory formation, first fear windows |
| 12–16 weeks | Adaptive phase – stable bonding, attention shaping, pre-teen independence |
- Introduce stable environments before 9 weeks
- Reinforce calm behaviour, not just obedience
- Avoid overstimulation during fear periods
- No punishment – everything becomes imprint
Learn more at Zoeta Dogsoul