Intro: As the dogs grow, pet parents will see a surge of independence and curiosity as the fear stages begins to fade. Personality traits will emerge — as will sharp permanent teeth, making chew toys and treats critical. Around sixteen weeks, puppies are ready for obedience school with a focus on positive behavior and socialization. Showing your pup new things in a controlled setting — such as crate training and certain boundaries — is essential to help them feel more confident and secure in the future. For more information, check out the below graphic.

Graphic created by Green Pet, retailer of cooling pads for pets.