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Puppy Tracks Newsletter


Written & compiled by...Donna Dick



Disclaimer: These Newsletters were written for my "kids". They were compiled for informational purposes only to assist the owners in the proper rearing and socialization of "my" babies. The advice herein is not meant to supercede that of another breeder's advice to their puppies; nor, a liscensed Veterinarian or Canine Behaviorist.

Reproduction for the purpose of Publication is strictly forbidden without written permission of the author and shall in all cases carry the disclaimer.


DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES

A puppy develops through five clearly recognizable stages. Each one is characterized by certain behavioral behavior and growth patterns.

Stage 1 - NEONATAL stage. This is weeks one and two. During this stage puppy remains in its nest. Its life revolves around eating, sleeping, and staying warm.

Stage 2 - TRANSITION stage. This is week three. During this stage puppy gains the ability to walk, potty on its own, hear and see. Nerves and neurons in the brain, and are almost fully developed.

Stage 3 - SOCIALIZATION stage. This is from four to twelve weeks. During this stage puppy begins to play and explore its world. Litter's Pecking Order is becoming established.

Stage 4 - JUVENILE stage. From about three to nine months. Temperament is developed. Social skills are established.

Stage 5 - ADOLESCENT stage. From puberty (around nine months) to full sexual maturity. Puberty occurs. Females enter heat cycles, Males begin leg lifting. Dogs develop and mature into adulthood.






"What to Expect When She's Expecting"

Pregnancy and Gestation of the Pregnant Bitch






8 weeks to 3 Months
Care & Feeding Instructions
Feeding & Watering
Chewing
Socialization
Chewing
Supplimenting Vitamins
Housebreaking & Punishment
Sleeping Area
Excercise
Health Care (Vaccinations, Heartworm, Lyme Disease)
Crating





3 to 6 Months
~The 16th Week~
"Flight & Fright Syndrome"
"Confidence Building Exercise"

~The Importance of Socialization~

~Teething~
"Dental Hygene"

~Recipe for "Love Bites"~





6 to 9 Months
Switching Puppy To Adult Food
My Puppy Is Not Eating Well

Protect Those Joints
The Cruciate Ligament

Serious Case Of The Uglies

Into the Show Ring
Show Collar & Lead, Examining Teeth, Stack Stay,
Stand For Exam, Gait On Lead, Fun Matches

Dog Show Treats & Bait


9 to 12 Months

~Preparing Mommy & Daddy for Puberty~
Males/Females, Spay or Neuter ?, Hormonal Behavior,
Showing A Bitch In Season

~To "C" or Not to "C"~
The Benefits Of Vitamin C

~Growing A Healthy Coat~
Parasites, Allergies, Disease, Nutrition
Infectious Or Contagious Skin Conditions

~Why Does My Dog Shed?~
The Summer/Winter Cycle

~JUST FOR FUN~



12 to 18 Months

One Year Old
Is My Pup Grown Up Now?, Transitional Phase

BLOAT
The Three Stages Of Bloat, Prevention is The Best Cure

Tips On Summer Survival For Your Dog

Preventive Health Care
Home Health Check List, Warning Signs

Know Your Dog Inside & Out

Calculating Championship Points

Just For Fun




"What Makes 'Em Tick?" Newsletter




dondick@iswt.com

About Us Our Mastiffs (page 1) Our Mastiffs (page 2) Our Grand "Kids"
Conformation Of the Mastiff
Rescue Great Links