Introduction to Puppy Socialization

One of the most useful programs you can participate in are "puppy socials." These events are fun and relaxing ways of teaching your youngster how to have good canine manners.

Many people are surprised to find out their pups are learning in these classes since they are so fun and light. Every class is different and since trainers/behaviorists run their classes differently from one to another it is a good idea to go and check them out first.

As a behavior consultant and trainer I explain what is happening during the interactions and make sure that the pups are not put into dangerous situations and do not allow any aversive (negative) things to happen to them while they are there. There is occasionally some discipline if we get a delinquent in the group or if someone forgets their manners. All animals are screened for shots before they can participate and are introduced to the group first visually and then by limited contact before they come into the group.

Good programs will make sure that you have veterinary clearance before participating and that the puppy shots are done. Some vets will allow the pups to come when they are still pending their rabies since it is a developmental perk to participate in puppy socials.

Puppy development passes through different stages where they best learn certain skills. By reading up on the topic you can take advantage of that learning period. For instance, when they come home with you it is important to socialize them to humans and interactions in various situations. At that young age you should be careful to not expose them to other animals or places where they could pick up diseases communicable through other animals or their excrement but you should get them out into public and new types of areas in the first week or so. This will help you to have a dog that accepts environmental changes well.

Puppy social classes will come later when the dog ages more and finishes those critical shots. In those classes puppies will learn how to get used to other types of dogs and what proper social dog etiquette is. Depending on the ages and the environment the class takes place in, the first pups may be introduced to each other on leash. (My classes were held in a warehouse and in a enclosed baseball field.) As more people bring their pets, they are first allowed to watch from the perimeter fence and sniff noses with those inside. This way their reaction can be assessed as to how best to introduce them. Some animals are shyer than others and need more gradual or controlled introductions. When they eventually come in, all the other dogs are on leash or occupied elsewhere. Once introductions are done on a one to one basis or they introduce themselves around, then each of those pups kept under control are allowed to play.

Remember that there is more of a chance for trouble to start if the dogs are restrained. Owners often inadvertently teach the pups to become fearful or aggressive. Most interactions can be handled by the supervising trainer/behaviorist (before they happen) and the voices or positions of all the participating humans can also correct inappropriate behavior. Sharing of toys, water dishes, and varied interactions with other owners and their pets all contribute to a well rounded pooch. Age groupings can be important but it is the psychological maturity or lack of it that leads me to okay animals for the group.

Some people think having a dog or two at the home is enough to properly socialize a pup but it is not. Dogs in the home are part of the pup's immediate family. It is good for your pup to have friends of their own. They can and will learn critical social skills in a painless manner and often will wear themselves out in a short hour. This is great for the tired owner who can often enjoy the sleeping puppy for at least one day a week!

This social interaction also prepares them for some more serious training later since it is separate from a regular training class. Social activities and schooling should be distinguished for the pup. School is for learning and social time is for play, even though they do learn important skills in that social time. Playing after school is okay if it is distinguished and okay with the person running the training classes.

Some of the more valuable things learned in the puppy social is how to approach another dog, what is acceptable with other dogs, what other breeds look like, and how to behave around other people. Some pup's were afraid of an Afghan puppy when they first met, and the English Mastiff scared some pup's when his growth spurt occurred and his face changed! Most hybrids do not adapt well and I do not encourage breeding them. It is not a humane breeding but those animals bred as hybrids have a better chance at being workable if involved in these types of classes. It still is no guarantee however.

Group participation of owners that have elementary skill or coaching can easily assist with teaching puppies not to jump or in teaching the pups to come from play situations or high distraction. This work should always be done under a trainer's/behaviorist's supervision.

Good classes of this type are fun for the trainer/behaviorist because it lets them relax and get to know their students (both human and canine!), it also allows the owners to relax and enjoy the interactions with other people of like interests and a variety of dogs.

It is enjoyable to me since I can explain what the owners are seeing and help them to understand dog behavior in a broad manner, distinguish the differences in the breed traits, how to read behavior in different animals, and how to stop potential problems by voice or distraction. The more diverse the group is the more entertaining and educational it can be!

To find classes in your area you can check with local pet stores, feed stores, veterinarians, groomers, or other pet professionals. Also check in the phone directory yellow pages under "Dog","Pet" or "Animal". Look for someone who has a variety of classes, which should include puppy classes, dog classes and puppy socialization classes.

Puppy socialization and puppy training is a very specialized type of training. You want it to be fun and exciting. Puppy work is usually done in short sessions with play and quiet time in between. Since they don't have an attention span at a young age this is critical.

I love to start puppies in private classes in their own home when they are eight weeks old. They can be taught easily and prevented from developing bad habits. Puppy training classes should also cover things that the pup will need to know when it goes to visit the veterinarian or the groomer. If you can find a good trainer that has both puppy classes, older dog classes AND socialization classes consider yourself blessed! At any rate, have a good time since that is what your relationship with your pup should be all about.