If your confident puppy is now cowering from the garden gate or a Hadeda bird, you are in a critical biological trap.
This is your puppy's first fear period. A single bad experience during this week can imprint a lifelong phobia that no amount of training can easily fix.
Between 6 and 14 months, hormones rewire the brain. Your teenage dog might suddenly treat a simple rubbish bin like a deadly monster.
Look for the whites of their eyes, tucked tails, or 'pancaking' to the floor. They aren't being naughty; their brain is in a state of high alert.
Coddling a terrified pet with 'Shame, don't be scared' actually reinforces the fear. It tells them that you, the leader, are also worried.
Instead of coddling, act silly. If they spook at a garden statue, walk up to it, touch it, and laugh. Your confidence is their safety net.
Drop high-value treats like biltong bits near the scary object. You are changing the brain's association from 'danger' to 'delicious snack time.'
Never force your pet to face their fear. Dragging a puppy toward an electric fence or loud mower shatters trust and can lead to biting.
During a fear period, stay away from busy spots like Emmerentia Dam. Keep their world small and controlled for two weeks to prevent trauma.
When summer thunderstorms or security gate clatter start, ensure your pet has a quiet crate or back room to retreat to until the cortisol drops.
If fear turns into snapping or biting, don't wait. Contact a VASA-accredited behaviorist to prevent a dangerous situation with powerful breeds.
By managing these windows with patience and biltong, you turn a 'spooky' puppy into a brave, stable adult companion.
Your pet isn't 'broken'—they are just growing. Using the Jolly Routine today prevents a lifetime of anxiety tomorrow. You have the tools to lead them.