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Until they reach 16 to 18 weeks of age, a puppy will be in a socialization
period. This period is the most important and critical in its life. Every effort should be
made to socialize your puppy; meaning to expose him or her to a variety of positive and
pleasant meetings. The greater the exposure you can give to your dog during this period,
the more it will lead to improved social flexibility, emotional stability and
trainability.
You
must socialize you puppy to a number of different things; people, adults and children of
various ages, animals and environments. Use the socialization table for ideas or for
tracking your progress. Place a check mark beside the experience that your puppy has had
the opportunity to add to his repertoire. Notice which spaces are blank and take you puppy
out! The more experiences in its repertoire, the better equipped the puppy will be to
socially to deal with new situations. Take advantage of puppyhood, because after this
period, socializing your dog will take longer and be much more difficult...
Remember that before
the puppy has its second shot, the puppy's immunity won't be as strong. Exposure to only
vaccinated dogs at this time is highly recommended.
An unsocialized
puppy is likely to fear some people or situations.
Fearful reactions are too often related to biting...
You have everything in
your hands to prevent these alarming reactions...
Below is a
socialization checklist for your puppy - Puppies should be exposed to all the
items on this list with your direct supervision at the following frequency; 6-7 weeks,
7-8 weeks, 8-9 weeks, 10-11 weeks, 13-14 weeks, 15-16 weeks, 4-6 months, 6-9 months and
9-12 months.
HUMANS: women and
men
young adults / adults
elderly people
disabled / infirm
loud, confident people
shy, timid people
joggers
delivery / wearing uniforms
people wearing hats
people with beards
people wearing glasses
CHILDREN
babies
toddlers
juniors
teenagers
ANIMALS
adult dogs
puppies
cats
small pets / birds
livestock / horses |
ENVIRONMENTS
friend's house
shopping centre
park
school / play grounds
day care
country walks
party
slippery floor
bus
bridges
tunnels
elevators
stairs
veterinary practice
groomer
boarding kennels
OTHERS
motorbikes
bicycles
breed related stimuli
wheel chairs
traffic |
Julie Sansregret - AHT, Dog trainer
Guides Canins
1313, rue PineRidge,
St-Lazare-de-Vaudreuil, Qué.
J7T 2M7 (450) 424-1469
guidescanins.com
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