PupStartDr. Emily Watson
Canine Developmental Psychologist
PhD Animal Behavior, CAAB
Dr. Emily Watson holds a PhD in Animal Behavior from UC Davis and is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist. She specializes in puppy cognitive development and early socialization windows. Her research on critical period learning in puppies has been published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science and the Journal of Veterinary Behavior. She consults for PupStart on curriculum design and developmental milestones.
Specializations
Articles by Dr.
French Bulldog Training Guide: Understanding and Training Your Frenchie
A breed-specific training guide for French Bulldogs covering their stubborn streak, heat sensitivity, short-session approach, and motivation techniques.
Puppy Dental Care: Teething, Tooth Brushing, and Long-Term Oral Health
Everything about puppy dental care from teething relief to tooth brushing routines and preventing periodontal disease for long-term oral health.
Puppy Vaccination Schedule: What Shots Your Puppy Needs and When
A clear puppy vaccination schedule from 6 weeks to 16 months covering core vaccines, boosters, rabies timing, and what to expect after each visit.
Puppy Wellbeing: The Complete Guide to Health, Routine, and Emotional Balance
A complete guide to puppy physical and emotional wellbeing covering health checklists, stress signs, routine architecture, and when to consult your vet.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home: Room-by-Room Safety Checklist
A room-by-room guide to puppy-proofing your home, covering hidden hazards in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and yards.