How to socialize your puppy!
A puppy’s personality is in part due to genetics. Sweet, affectionate parents often make loving pups. But there’s also a lot we can do to help the puppy develop into a healthy family pet, free from unnecessary fears, anxieties or other social problems. The process is called puppy socialization.
The first couple weeks...
Here at the farm, training starts early. Beginning the first week, we carefully handle all puppies teaching them to trust people. It’s important that the puppies experience human touch in the very early stages of life.
Early Nuerological Stimulation...
Additionally, we practice a technique called Early Neurological Stimulation, or ENS. (Click here for details on ENS.) ENS was developed by the US military to aid in the development of military working dogs and has been used with puppies for decades. ENS helps stimulate neurological development, helps with cardiovascular & adrenal development, helps build tolerance to stress and even builds stronger disease resistance. (Continued below…)
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Challenging the senses...
Puppies are usually weaned by their momma at about 4 weeks of age. Sometime between 4 and 6 weeks, the puppies will start spending time outside here at the farm. Puppies will get fresh air and sunshine – plenty of vitamin D! Their senses will be challenged and developed with all the new and exciting things to hear, see and smell.
The first 3-4 months are critical for puppies when it comes to socialization. So it's important to continue to socialize your puppy after the pup comes home.
Safe exposure to other animals...
The puppies will also be exposed to other animals. While in their secure environment, they’ll be checked out by other dogs, cats might stroll by from time to time and they’ll see chickens and goats going about their business across the fence. This is invaluable experience that will help your puppy stay comfortable when exposed to new experiences down the road. (Continued below…)
The above video was taken soon after we were hit by a severe storm, knocking over trees and damaging property. It’s not normally so messy!
Continuing in your home...
The first 3-4 months are critical, therefore it’s important to continue to socialize your puppy after the pup comes home. Your environment will be unique and will require unique socialization strategies. Are you in a subdivision? Will the dog be around lots of children? Strangers? Does the pup need to get used to the sounds of traffic? Construction? Neighbors? Maybe you’re in an apartment and noises outside the door are common. Or perhaps you’re in a rural area, and the pup will need to become accustomed to other animals.
Once your puppy has had necessary vaccinations, take him for walks. Go to the park. Enroll in basic obedience training or socialization classes. Arrange play-dates with other dogs or puppies you know are safe and healthy. There are many possibilities and the more you expose your puppy to social situations, the healthier the pup will be. But remember, it’s extremely important that the puppy be socialized BEFORE it’s done with vaccinations. The first few months are most important!
You only get one chance with your puppy!
Regardless of the environment, love on your puppy often. Teach the puppy that it’s safe to be around humans and that he can trust others…that there’s no need to become aggressive around new people or animals. Stay calm and be patient! Pups are sometimes challenging at first. Persistence and consistency will make for a terrific family member in the end.
