Épigenèse sensorielle, émotionnelle et relationnelle du chiot

The behavioural and social development of puppies depends on development, growth and organization of the nervous system, combined with the environment 's effects. This epigenetic development has a fundamental influence on the ontogeny of imprinting, sensory capabilities, emotional regulation and social relationships. The sensitive period of socialization (from 3 weeks to 3 month) first discovered by Scott and Fuller is discussed ; it depends on the neurologic development. Two other sensitive periods are examined. The first one determines the neuro- vegetative functions and contact tolerance and it begins before birth. The second one is cognitive and is situated near puberty : it is a sensitization and hierarchization period. This kind of epigenetic development provides a lot of risk factors : a growth badly adapted to the environment easily brings phobias, anxieties, and some kinds of competitive aggression and delinquancy behaviours.