Nursing in puppies is an example of which type of behavior?

• A. Innate (automatic) phylogenetic behavior
• B. Ontogenetic behavior
• C. Learned through operant conditioning
• D. Social learning

Answer: (A)

Nursing in puppies is an innate, phylogenetic behavior. It’s an inborn reflex to seek and latch onto a nipple and suckle, which appears without needing prior learning. This reflex is wired into mammals through evolutionary history, ensuring the newborn gets nourishment right from birth. It isn’t dependent on training or reinforcement, and it would occur even without observing others. Ontogenetic behavior would develop through experience, operant conditioning would require rewards to shape the behavior, and social learning would involve learning by watching others—none are necessary for the initial nursing instinct, which is why this is the best description.