What is puppy socialization?
Socialization is the process by which your puppy learns to be comfortable with all the things in their environment. If this sounds like a big project, it is. Your puppy needs to get used to:
- People of all ages, sizes, and ethnicities
- The sights, sounds, smells, and surfaces of many different environments
- Dogs and other animals
Why puppy socialization is urgent
During your puppy’s 3rd and 16th week, they are more accepting of new experiences than at any other point in their life. Both good and bad experiences will have a profound and lasting effect on their behavior habits and character as adult dogs. If your puppy isn’t well socialized, they are at great risk of developing problems with fear or even aggression in adulthood. By contrast, well-socialized puppies usually develop into relaxed, confident, and enjoyable canine companions.
How to socialize your puppy
Properly socializing your puppy during their formative weeks is essential for raising a dog who thrives in various environments and situations. Use the following tips to navigate this critical period with patience and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Make every day unique: pack each day with new experiences for your puppy.
- Keep high-value treats nearby: As you guide your puppy through new experiences, yummy treats can help them have a positive association with those experiences.
- Limit fearful situations: Watch your puppy’s reaction to new and potentially frightening situations. If they are overwhelmed, remove them from the situation and reintroduce them to a similar experience or place at a lesser intensity.
- Don’t force your puppy to interact with someone or something: If your puppy seems scared or reluctant to interact with someone or something, give them the option to approach at their own pace or put some space between them and the thing scaring them. If they are nervous about meeting a person or child, give them some treats or toys to share with your puppy.
- Explore! Take lots of walks in different neighborhoods and at different times of day. Also take your puppy on different terrains and surfaces, like stairs and elevators.
- Take puppy classes: Puppy training classes help your puppy build confidence in themselves and socialize with other puppies and people.
What about vaccinations?
Socialization is your puppy’s behavioral vaccination. If you wait until your puppy is fully vaccinated, you will miss the socialization window. You can and should begin socialization as soon as you have your puppy. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Regular outings. Carry your puppy in a sling, take them on a car ride, or have them with you on a blanket on a bench. Try taking your puppy with you to a playground, children’s soccer game, car wash, retail store, flea market, skateboard park, etc. Make sure they meet all types of people and children: In uniforms, using crutches or wheelchairs, with a beard or wearing a hat, carrying boxes, and so on.
Puppy party. Host a puppy get-together in your home with friends who have healthy, fully vaccinated dogs (provided they are good with other dogs and patient with puppies).
For further reading on puppy socialization, please read the AVSAB Position Statement on Puppy Socialization.