Puppy Socialisation

Early Socialisation of Puppies

Early socialisation is absolutely vital to ensure a balanced and well-behaved adult dog—especially when you realize that more juvenile dogs are put down because of behavioural problems than die from the diseases we vaccinate against.

Recommended Socialisation Schedule:

Birth: Puppy will be with mum and siblings, but should experience human scent (both male and female) at a very early stage.

3 Weeks: All environmental stimuli should be interesting and non-threatening to the puppy. The breeder should expose the puppy to general household noises (washing machine, vacuum, T.V) and start to accustom the puppy to a normal domestic environment. There should be plenty of handling at this age - start grooming, checking teeth and doing mock vet examinations.

6-8 Weeks: This is when the puppy normally joins it's new family. Your new puppy should meet all the family (men, women, children, other pets and babies). Take it on car journeys and expose it to visitors of all shapes and sizes including the postman or milkman. Start to accustom your puppy to being left home alone. Add food to your puppies bowl while it eats. Your puppy will have its first visit to the vet and encounter injections for the first time. You can consider socialising your puppy in controlled situations.

9 Weeks: Start to introduce stronger stimuli and begin leash training. This is the ideal time for puppy socialisation classes under veterinary supervision. Be aware not to put your puppy on the ground in public places, but it is safe to carry them for outings. 

12 Weeks: Ensure a broadening range of experiences. Avoid dogs that are aggressive or badly behaved in parks, as these may encourage a fear reaction in your puppy or teach bad behaviour. Lessons learnt can be forgotten unless you reinforce them. This should continue right up until social maturity—typically after 12 months of age. Try not to let a boisterous puppy be too much 'in the face' with other puppies or adult dogs particularly when meeting for the first time. Ensure new experiences are positive ones. Do not encourage 'growly' play that reinforces negative behaviour traits.

5-7 Months: Socialisation is so important at this time to reduce the likelihood of 'fear imprinting'.

The best way to socialise your new puppy is for you both to attend St Bernard's Road Puppy School.