The Educated Dog Learning Center LLC

Puppy A to Z

Puppy Socialization

Early socialization is central to the prevention of behavior problems like fear and aggression.

The first 12 weeks of your puppy's life is the so-called critical socialization window. During this time your puppy soaks up experiences like a sponge to determine what in his environment is safe and what isn't.

What does this mean?

If you want an adult dog, for example, that loves kids and other dogs, is laid-back about mail carriers, and enjoys riding in cars, now is the time to teach him.

The more people, dogs, and situations that you can positively expose your puppy to, the better.Get off to a great start with our Puppy Playschool.  Your puppy will play, frolic, wrestle, fetch, tug, and learn all-important social skills.

Vaccinations

Your puppy should have his first set of shots at least a week before attending Puppy Playschool. But don't wait longer. The risks of under-socialization are much greater than the risk of disease. 

For more information, read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's statement on puppy socialization.

 Teach Your Puppy to Like...

 People of all kinds.  Old, young, in uniform, in a bikini, bespectacled, or wearing hats---you want a dog you can safely take out in public.

Dog of all breeds and temperaments.  Playful, reserved, flat-faced, longhaired, wire-haired, wheezing, floppy-eared, bossy, or shy---you want a dog with all-around social skills.

Handling.  Grooming, examinations at the vet, tick checks, teeth brushing, taking away that chew toy---you want a dog you and others can handle without fear.

Worried about socialization or puppy manners?  Contact us for puppy training lessons, complete with a socialization plan. Purchase a package of private puppy lessons and get a free pass to Puppy Playschool!