Socialization should begin as soon as you get your puppy and often this means at 7 weeks of age. Puppies naturally accept new people, other species and introduction to new situations during the socialization period which occurs between 7 and 14 to 16 weeks of age.
This period provides an opportunity for a myriad of introductions that will provide positive memories that last a lifetime. Puppies are eager, exploratory and uninhibited during this period and it is important to take advantage of this enthusiasm.
Be sure to protect your puppy during this period and ensure that all experiences are positive, fun and not fear evoking.
As a rule, We Train Any Dog say to try and introduce your puppy to 100 people, 100 dogs, 100 situations, people with hats, glasses, bright yellow rain jackets, umbrellas, big dogs, small dogs, young dogs and old, cars, trains, the vet waiting room. As many different situations that you can dream of in a safe and controlled way and make these all positive experiences.
