Positive
and proper socialization and exposure at a young age is key to help our dogs
develop into stable adults. This
training is not meant just for service dogs in training; this is true for all
dogs. A puppy’s socialization window
closes at 16 weeks of age, so it is vital to get out in the world from day one
with your new puppy. Plan ahead. Prepare
for your puppy’s new experiences. Set up
meetings with people, kids, toddlers, babies, other dogs and animals and arm
yourself with something of higher value to your puppy than what you are
exposing them to. This almost always
involves some sort of food or treat (but could include a toy or anything else
that the puppy flips for). Be sure to
reward for good behaviors and NEVER force your puppy into a situation that
makes them uncomfortable or nervous. So
ready, set…..Go have fun introducing your new pup to the world.
For a
list of ideas to socialize and explore with your dogs, check out the Pet
Professional Guild guide: http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/Resources/Documents/PPG-Client-Puppy-Socialization-Download.pdf
