Of course, we want the best for our animals, but often as pet owners we often overlook a crucial part of healthy development from pup-hood to adulthood; socialization. It seems safe, easy and convenient to keep your puppy at home away from threats, hazards and diseases of the outside world, however there are benefits of socializing dogs from a young age that outweigh the potential risks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Socialization is the process of exposing your dog to other people, animals, places and objects, in a controlled and positive manner. The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. Improper or incomplete socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems including, fear, avoidance, and\/or aggression. Behavioral problems are a leading cause of relinquishment to shelters, which may lead to the euthanasia of these animals. Because the first three months are the critical period when sociability outweighs fear, this is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to be introduced to new animals, peoples, smells and sounds, allowing them to be more comfortable and adaptable to new situations and environments. Socialization should be based on positive reinforcement, with frequent reward praise, petting, play and\/or treats.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span>Although puppy immune systems are still developing during these early months of age, the combination of maternal antibodies, primary vaccinations, and appropriate care make it safer to get puppies outside in new situations. Encouraging puppies to explore, investigate, and manipulate their environments allows them to become more confident when interacting with different people, well-socialized animals, situations, and places. Puppy socialization classes can offer a safe and structured form of socialization. Prior to entering the class, each puppy participant should have started their vaccination series and be internal and external parasite free.<\/span><\/p>\n Early socialization activities may include some of the following:<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Cat and dog laying in grass<\/b><\/p><\/div>\n Starting socialization off right\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Properly socializing a young animal is a large commitment that requires time and effort. Before bringing a new puppy home, assess if you are prepared for of the responsibility and commitment puppyhood brings, as your level of dedication to socialization can influence the dog\u2019s behaviors for the rest of his life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Spending too much time with your puppy early on can lead to separation anxiety issues, while leaving them alone and unattended frequently can result in anxious behaviors such as chewing and destroying.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Click Here For Our Puppy Socialization Checklist:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Puppy Socialization Checklist<\/a><\/p>\n Gabby Alonzo, Jordyn DeHaan, Hannah Urig, MPH, DVM<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Read Puppy Socialization 101 Series | Part 2\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Puppy Socialization 101 Series | Part 2<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
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\nAdditional Resources<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n
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