Puppy socialization: getting used to new people
Puppy Socialisation
The most beneficial time for pups to learn positive interaction is roughly from 3 weeks of age to 12 weeks of age. Much of what the pup is exposed to will happen around their litter mates and mum. There are a lot of potentially scary new things for your pup to learn. Often simple day to day things are all learnt with the breeder but get imaginative and build up a positive set of experiences.
- New people, think outside the box- hi vis vests, masks, helmets, large coats! If possible, ask these people to get your pup to sit and take a treat/toy. Start by letting the dog sniff them and ask them not to place hand above head or stare at eyes. Instead once the pup is ok they can stroke the chest or shoulders. If your pup shows any signs of anxiety do not force them to interact. Reward and praise calm behaviour, such as waiting besides you.
- Children. Always give supervision! Start with older children who understand how to interact with dogs.
- New dogs (whilst the pup is young, start with vaccinated dogs). Try to avoid overly bouncy dogs at first as these can be too much for your dog to cope with. Try to greet as many breeds and sizes as possible. Keep first interactions short and restrict to the lead, reward good behaviour. If your pup is too bouncy and excited to greet others, then try to encourage a sit command and reward or distract from dog. Walk away if they are too excited, but be careful not to reward over excitable behaviours.
- Traffic. Start small on a quiet street and slowly build up. Lorries are noisy and very big!!
- Bicycles
- Prams
- Hoovers
- Loud noises, ie fireworks
- Footballs
- Car travel
- Cats
- Livestock (always keep on the lead! And never let them too close!)
- Vets! We love a puppy cuddle!
If your puppy is showing signs of getting anxious then take a step back. Do not punish them for showing fearful behaviour. Any physical punish may break the bond they have with you and cause them to dislike all other people, which can in turn lead to a bite.
Visit the Blue Cross for more great advice:
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/socialising-your-puppy
Please Note
These factsheets are provided as guidelines only. If you are at all concerned about the wellbeing of your pet then please call Hope Veterinary Surgery immediately by using our phone number 01782 657788.
