Understanding the Second Sensitive Period in Dogs

The “Second Fear Period” refers to:

The Neonatal Period

Young Puppy (3-12weeks)

Adolescence

Adulthood

Adolescence is considered a:

A Sensitive Period

A Critical Period

A phase

None of the above

Changes that occur in the brain during adolescence include:

a) Strengthening of neuronal connections

b) Pruning of neuronal connections

c) Neither a) nor b)

d) Both a) & b)

Plasticity:

Increases over the lifespan of a dog

Decreases the number of pathways a brain develops

Refers to the ability of the brain to adapt functionally & structurally in response to experience & injury

Ends at sexual maturity

Factors affecting development during adolescence include:

Genetic predisposition

Sex Hormones

Social interactions

All the above

Epigenetic effects:

Involve only the genes carried by the individual

Involve the interplay between genetic code and internal & external stressors

Are only seen in young animals

Are always reversible

Dogs are:

Direct descendants of modern wolves

Subject to a dominance hierarchy

Able to learn best by using punishment & aversives

None of the above

When evaluating a behaviour as being “normal” or “abnormal”, one should take note of the

Frequency & duration at which it occurs

The intensity of the behaviour

The age & developmental stage of the dog

All the above

If one suspects a behaviour problem in a 6 month old chihuahua, one should:

Wait for it to grow out of it

Refer to a Behaviour Vet / Veterinary Behaviour Specialist

Ask the carer to come back in 6months for a recheck

Refer to a trainer

If a 6-year-old dog has had a behaviour issue that has been a problem since it was 18months old, one should

Do a behaviour assessment or refer to a Behaviour Vet / Specialist for evaluation as soon as possible.

Not worry about it, it will get better as the dog gets more mature

Once a behaviour problem is established, nothing can be done

Euthanise the dog

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Understanding the Second Sensitive Period in Dogs