A pup-parent’s guide to introducing their puppy to the world
The most important period of a dog’s life is between 3 and 12 weeks old. This is the time in a dog’s life when puppies are learning what is and isn’t safe in their world. It is called the socialization period.
Puppies tend to assume that whatever they encounter during this time is safe. After the socialization period is over, it can be much more challenging to introduce a puppy to new things.
Who should your Puppy Meet?
Quality puppy socialization is about more than having your puppy play with lots of dogs. The encounters you want your puppy to have with other dogs are varied and natural. Have your puppy walk past other dogs or relax while other dogs are present.
Letting all kinds of people pet your puppy is great, but it is even better to teach your puppy that there are different ways to interact with people. Sometimes puppy gets pets, other times he leaves people alone. After all, you don’t want your dog dragging you to meet every person they see.
Socializing your puppy includes all the day to day experiences we want our puppy to be comfortable with. Your puppy should be handled and groomed. They should see cars and bikes, hear sirens and thunder, and get to know all the smells in their surroundings.
What is Socialization?
Socialization is introducing your puppy to the world, and it is happening whether or not you are intentional about it.
Experiencing a variety of things at this age does a lot of good for a puppy – creating a dog who is confident, curious, and calm, even when life gets weird. A well-socialized puppy will grow into a dog who knows how to behave in various settings. This dog believes the world to be a generally fun and interesting place.
On the other hand, unsocialized puppies often struggle with behavioral issues. The same can be said for puppies who have negative experiences during their socialization period.
Because these puppies have only built their confidence around a few scenarios, they have learned that much of the world is dangerous or unpredictable. These puppies can become fearful, reactive, anxious, and even aggressive.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior says “Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time [3-12 weeks] can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and/or aggression.”
The Breeder/Raiser’s Role
Socialization begins with the breeder or puppy raiser. A good breeder should be able to answer your questions about socialization. They should have a plan or program that they follow and be able to tell you how they are preparing your puppy home.
Your Role
Your puppy is relying on you to show them how fun and interesting the world can be. Focus on having positive experiences with the world. Look for opportunities for your puppy to interact with things he hasn’t seen. This is your chance to show your pup all the people, places, sights, sounds, and smells that you can find!
Puppy Development Timeline:
3-5 weeks old – Puppies learn about being a dog from mom and littermates.
5-7 weeks old – Puppies are developing independence. Puppies younger than 6 weeks should not be separated from the litter.
6-12 weeks old – Puppies are ready and eager to encounter new things. Positive and negative experiences that occur in this time stick with them throughout their lives.
After 12 weeks – Puppies start to be more nervous around new things and will require more training to accept new people, places, or things
Getting Started with Socialization
What do you want your puppy to do throughout their life? Do you have plans for your dog? What vet or grooming care will your dog need? Do you expect your dog to be around children? Do you plan to board your dog when you go on vacation? Be intentional about making sure that your puppy experiences these things (or approximations of these things) early on.
You can mix socialization time with puppy training. First, look for the behaviors you want to see more of (paying attention, laying down, or watching things in the environment). Then, capture these moments of good behavior with your clicker and treats. Click the moment your puppy is being good, and give her a treat. (For more information, check out this article on clicker training).
Remember, quality socialization is about positive experiences. Go slow, keep it short, and stay at a safe distance from anything that might scare your puppy. It can be helpful to look for a socialization class in your area. Enrolling your puppy in Scallywags Strong Starts is an easy way to start socializing your puppy.
Resources:
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s Position on Socialization.
Pupford’s Puppy Socialization Checklist.
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