Over the years, dog training techniques have evolved and changed dramatically. We now know much more than we did previously about how the canine brain functions and how dogs learn. One of the things we’ve discovered is that, for puppies, there is a time frame early in their life during which they are much more open to learning from and adjusting to new situations.
Early Socialization for Puppies
Early socialization is an important part of puppy training. Without proper socialization, puppies are more likely to develop undesirable behavioral issues and even become fearful dogs as they mature. With proper socialization, puppies learn to interact and play well with other puppies and adult dogs. Young puppies are also more likely to be able to adjust to and accept new situations and unfamiliar objects than older dogs.
For most puppies, the ideal window of opportunity for socialization is before 3-4 months of age. After that age, though socialization is still recommended and can be successful, it is more difficult for the puppy to adapt and learn.
What Does Early Socialization Involve for a Puppy?
Early socialization involves introducing your puppy to as many new situations, new places and new objects as possible, as well as allowing your puppy to meet and greet as many other animals and people as possible. However, at the same time, these activities need to be done in a way that keeps your puppy safe.
Young puppies are more susceptible to illnesses, such as parvovirus, than more mature dogs. Previously, most trainers and veterinarians recommended that young puppies be kept isolated and away from other dogs until the initial puppy vaccination series had been completed. Now, we realize that the most important window for successful socialization has already closed by the time puppies have completed their series of vaccinations. As a result, the current recommendation is to pursue socialization but to choose your puppy’s playmates carefully, avoiding contact with other dogs that are not healthy.
Puppy Play Classes Provide a Perfect Opportunity for Socialization and Training
Organized puppy play classes are now being offered through many facilities, including local shelters and rescues, veterinary clinics and other pet facilities. These classes allow your puppy an opportunity to socialize freely with other dogs in a supervised environment.
Puppies enrolled in a puppy play class should be healthy and parasite-free. Ideally, classes should be held in a location that provides flooring that is easily cleaned and disinfected. Any feces or urine should be cleaned up immediately.
Additional Socialization Tips for Your Puppy
Introduce your puppy to as many situations as possible. Allow your puppy to get used to riding in a car. Allow him to accompany you, if possible, in public locations. However, avoid dog parks and similar locations where dogs with an unknown history may congregate.
Introduce your puppy to as many new people as possible and allow him to interact with them. Consider allowing your puppy to interact with other types of animals also. Many canine households also have cats with which the puppy must live.
Early socialization can be accomplished in a manner that keeps your puppy safe and healthy with a little planning and forethought. In addition, it can make the difference between a puppy that grows into a well-adjusted, well-behaved adult dog or a puppy that becomes an adult that is difficult to handle, with problematic and potentially even aggressive behaviors.
Photo Courtesy of Kiwi NZ/Flickr.com