# The Puppies’ Age at Adoption Time Influences the Behavioral Responses of Adult Dog

## TL;DR

Puppies adopted before 2 months old show more fear and anxiety as adults, suggesting adoption timing affects dog behavior and welfare.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates that adoption age significantly impacts adult dog behavior, emphasizing early socialization and owner education.

## Key findings

- Puppies adopted ≤1 or ≤2 months old showed higher fear and anxiety behaviors.
- Early adoption correlates with increased attachment and attention-seeking tendencies.
- Proper socialization and adoption timing can reduce abandonment rates.

## Abstract

Early socialization and appropriate adoption time are crucial for canine behavior and welfare. Stress and behavioral challenges, such as fear, aggression, or separation-related behaviors, often lead to abandonment. Canine development includes sensitive periods, particularly the socialization phase (3–12 weeks), when puppies adapt to novel stimuli and form bonds. This study in Sardinia analyzed 107 dogs adopted at various ages (≤1 to ≥4 months) and found that puppies adopted ≤1 or ≤2 months exhibited higher fear, anxiety, and attachment and attention-seeking behaviors. The findings stress the importance of proper socialization, adoption timing, owner education, and behavioral assessments to improve canine welfare and reduce abandonment.

Early socialization and appropriate adoption time are key factors in shaping canine behavior and welfare. Stress and behavioral challenges are major concerns for owners, often leading to abandonment. Stress can be assessed through physiological and behavioral indicators, with behavior being a noninvasive and practical measure. Canine development includes critical sensitive periods, particularly the socialization phase (3–12 weeks), when puppies form primary social bonds and adapt to novel stimuli. Lack of positive experiences during this period can lead to adult behavioral problems like fear, aggression, or anxiety. This study analyzed the behaviors of 107 dogs adopted at different ages (≤1 month to ≥4 months) and from varied origin contexts (shelters, breeders, private). Using the validated C-BARQ tool, the research found that the age at adoption significantly influenced behavior, with puppies adopted ≤1 or ≤2 months showing higher behavioral signs of fear, anxiety, and attachment and attention-seeking tendencies compared to those adopted later. The findings highlight the importance of socialization and appropriate adoption timing to prevent behavioral issues. The study underscores the value of educating owners and shelters about expected behavioral changes and the benefits of professional behavioral assessments. By fostering realistic expectations and proactive interventions, these insights aim to improve canine welfare and reduce abandonment rates.