Socialization & Early Exposure

Socialization gives puppies gentle and positive exposure to the things they will experience as adults. This includes people, places, other animals, sounds, sights, surfaces, and situations.

To be effective, socialization must happen during the sensitive period (~3 to 14 weeks of age). This is when puppies have brain and behavioral flexibility. Puppies can quickly learn what is safe or unsafe. The pup’s perception of each socialization opportunity must be positive.   

Socialization should start before 8 weeks, when a fear period begins. Socialize pups in several places before 6 – 7 weeks of age to prevent fear when they are outside of their nursery. 

Positive interactions are critical until 6-8 months of age but should continue after. Socialization requires lifetime maintenance!

0 Comments

Socialization and early exposure is the single most effective way to prevent fear, behavior problems (including aggression), and adult dogs that cannot cope with their environment. Some dog experts even refer to the effective socialization and early exposure of puppies as a “behavior vaccine”.

0 Comments

Socialization & Early Exposure Library

 Additional Resources to Support Dogs in Other Environments

SHELTER & RESCUE

Dogs living in shelter or rescue kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, including those caring for dogs in home-based foster systems or rescue networks, are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.

 

PET FAMILIES

Dogs living in homes as family pets face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, support the human-animal bond, keep pets in their homes, and improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.

 

Research & Teaching

Dogs living in research or teaching kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.