A Crucial Time for Socialization
Training Note: Puppy Training Socialization
In technical terms, socialization is the developmental process whereby puppies and adolescent dogs familiarize themselves with their constantly changing surroundings. Essentially it means that puppies have to encounter and be comfortable with all of the things you want them to accept gracefully as adults. That means all kinds of people, other dogs, other animals, noises and sights, etc.
Once your dog reaches a certain age—around 4 to 6 months—their ability to easily accept new experiences begins to wane. If they have not been well socialized by that time there is a much greater risk of developing all sorts of behavioral problems stemming from fear—aggression, agoraphobia, reactivity towards certain people, animals, or situations, etc.
It’s our job to help our puppies make positive associations with the things in their environment. Teaching your puppy that the world is safe will help prevent behavior problems in the future. Remember, while now is a crucial time to socialize your puppy, the need to see and experience new things will continue throughout your puppy’s life.
Henderson Pet Resort’s Lead Trainer, Amy, has developed customized puppy socialization programs and leads her team to help puppy parents understand the socialization process. Kindergarten at Henderson Pet Resort starts at 12 weeks of age, but private consultation and training are encouraged prior to that age, to help you get your new puppy started off on the right paw!
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!