Early Puppy Socialization Is Paramount
Early puppy socialization is paramount to create an emotionally well adjusted puppy.
Puppies require socialization from birth on. Puppies begin learning at birth. Their brains are acutely responsive to learning during the first early weeks. The breeder should socialize the puppy before placing the puppy in a home, however, the new puppy owner will need to continue this socialization process. Between 8 weeks and 16 weeks they learn and retain experiences they encounter. The first thing the puppy should learn and be taught is to come when called. The command is “the puppy’s new name and come” ex. “Lola come”, “Bently come” this is also a safety issue. You will not be able to adequately protect your puppy if he does not come quickly with the first call. From birth to 16 weeks we are all required to socialize the new puppy with other puppies & dogs, with children & adults, with a variety of other life experiences during this window of the optimal period from birth to 16 weeks old.
There are puppy socialization classes offered for puppies as young as 8 weeks. It is highly recommended that you enroll your puppy in such a class immediately after bringing your new puppy home. This will also improve your puppies bond with you. Most pet stores, breeders and veterinarians recommend that the new puppy owner enroll their puppy in a socialization class as soon as possible. It is especially important between 8-12 weeks of age and it is important that the breeder be socializing the puppy from birth to purchase and placement in a new home. It is important that the puppy have at least it’s first vaccination before participating in socialization classes.
Are there risks? Yes, however the risks for their health is far less than the risks of behavioral issues that could lead to a dog dying or “euthanasia because of behavior problems is more than 1,000 time the risk of dying of distemper of parvo virus.” Vaccination and socialization are equally important.
For more information See –(JAVMA, Vol 223, No 1, pages 61-66, 2003)
References: online article from American Humane Association and
Robert K. Anderson DVM
Diplomate ACVB and ACVPM
Professor and Director Emeritus, Animal Behavior Clinic and Center to Study Human/Animal Relationships and Environments
University of Minnesota
BarbaraWilliams
Miniature Schnauzer Breeder
Barbara Williams
Merced, California
209-722-0070 or 209-233-1929
puppyxmas@gmail.com
