Socialization

Socialization is one of the most important aspects of raising a puppy! Socialization helps dogs learn to be comfortable in a variety of situations. Puppies are like little sponges—they are always learning! And when they are young, puppies are curious and able to learn about new situations. As dogs get older, they become naturally suspicious of new situations. Good socialization takes advantage of a puppy’s natural ability to learn about new situations.  When a well socialized puppy grows into an adult dog, the adult dog can be confident because she has “been there, done that.”

Puppies need to explore the world when they are young!

Fear Period

                Puppies go through several stages in their development. One of the most important stages is the “fear period.” During a fear period, dogs are very sensitive to negative experiences. A bad experience during a fear period can leave a lasting impression on an adult dog. Most puppies experience their first fear period between eight and ten weeks, although every individual puppy is different. A second fear period is typically experienced between four and six months. Some dogs may experience more than two fear periods. A dog experiencing a fear period will typically exhibit “wary” behaviors, such as getting down low, tucking the tail, not wanting to walk forward, etc. Some dogs may even act this way around things that they used to be comfortable with!

It is critical that dogs have only positive experiences during fear periods! Do not force a puppy into a negative experience and do not “coddle” a puppy that is frightened. “Coddling” or consoling a frightened puppy by picking it up, cooing at it, or giving it lots of attention is like telling the puppy, “Good boy! You are very right to be frightened!” Instead, use a neutral tone of voice and remain calm. Say things like, “Oh it is only a vacuum cleaner, silly puppy!” Praise any confident behaviors (for example, a puppy taking a step towards the vacuum cleaner to sniff it).

New Experiences!

Puppies should have as many positive experiences as possible. Use treats and toys to help make positive associations! Here is a list of some of the things you should expose your puppy to:

·         Strangers (as many as possible!)

o   People with hats, umbrellas, backpacks, hoodies, costumes, etc.

·         Children

·         Loud noises

o   Vacuum cleaner

o   Fireworks (or prerecorded fireworks)

o   Loud metal noises (like a metal chair falling on the ground)

o   Screaming

o   Thunder (or prerecorded thunder sounds)

o   Car horn, traffic

o   Doorbell ringing

o   Applause/ excited crowds

·         Things with wheels

o   Bicycles

o   Rollerblades, skate boards

o    Cars, busses

o   Shopping carts

o   Strollers

o   Wheelchairs

o   Garbage cans with wheels

·         Fans

·         Balloons

·         Bags blowing in the wind

·         Brooms

·         Umbrellas

·         Vet’s office

·         Car rides

·         Animals

o   Dogs (of all breeds and ages!)

o   Cats

o   Small animals (such as hamsters, rabbits, etc.)

o   Livestock (especially horses!)

o   Reptiles

o   Birds

·         Different surfaces

o   Metal grates

o   Manhole covers

o   Different floor types (especially shiny and slippery floors)

o   Ice and snow (if possible)

o   Wobbly surfaces

o   Mud, wet grass

o   Concrete

·         Stairs

·         Bridges (especially bridges that swing and bridges with metal grates!)

·         Grooming tools

o   Brushes

o   Nail clippers

o   Dremel

o   Toothbrush

·         Anything that you want your puppy to be confident around as an adult dog!