Introduction- The first steps to puppy socialization!

Hello, my name is Junne and I'm a dog trainer!

So I'll dive in with a little bit of an introduction. I started dog training 2 years ago, working primarily with reactive dogs and started dipping my toes into behavioral modification work. I went on to focus on puppies. That's really where I found my place in the training community.

Since my start in training I've taught training basics and CGC classes to the public and went on to build my own list of clients. I love working with puppies so much, I mean it’d be hard not to like working with puppies haha! My goal is to offer simple solutions to very common issues new puppy guardians face. As well as bringing on voices from all different perspectives in the dog training community.

Today, I’ll be talking a little about the importance of socialization. This to me is one of the most important aspects of training your puppy. Introducing them to as many new things gradually and safely as you can will set them up for success in a human society. You are your dog's advocate. You have to be there to read their body language and make sure you have them in a comfortable situation that's conducive to learning.

If you get your pup from a ethical reputable breeder, or a shelter that follows proper safety practices. The youngest puppy you’ll have is 8-10weeks. That's the period of time ill be referencing when I speak on this next subject.

During this fragile period of life, while your new friend is still in the process of finishing out all their vaccines, you don't want to take them right out into the big scary world and let them smell and touch whatever they want. But, this does not mean they can’t be slowly introduced to the outside and all the different experiences that come with that. You want your new puppy to see different kinds of people, cars, mobility devices. Hear all sorts of different sounds, and of course smell lots of smells. It’s up to you to evaluate your situation and what would be the safest choice for your puppy.

There are different stages in a puppies development;

• Stage 1: Neonatal Period (0 – 2 weeks)

• Stage 2: Transitional Period (2 – 4 weeks)

• Stage 3: Socialization Period (3 – 12 weeks)

There are lots more stages we’ll go into another time.

During the beginning of this socialization stage; the shelter or breeder should have started the process of introducing them to new things. This isnt always the case which is why it’s so important to intensely research where you’re getting your pup from.

Once your new puppy is in their forever home with you- this is when you take over. There is a huge problem in the dog community where guardians will bring their puppy home, feel so much joy and excitement as anyone would, and then settle into feeling overwhelmed, discovering that maybe they are underprepared. In this little chunk of time in between, a lot of training and socialization gets overlooked. This is arguably the most important part in setting your puppy up for their future. Those first few weeks once you bring them home define a large part of their comfortability around other dogs, kids, and new things.

So, what are some ways you can safely socialize your new pup?

If you are still waiting on certain vaccines and are airing on the side of caution- take your furry friend outside in 5-10 minute increments on leash of course- ideally if you have a patio/porch or yard. This would be the best option. If that isn't something you have access to, take them to a place that isn't swarming with people and other dogs. Maybe a small park nearby. Just allow your puppy to smell and see something new. Like I said before- 10minutes is a good goal to shoot for but always pay close attention to your pups body language. If they’re ears are back, tail is tucked and they're hiding behind you, bring them back home where its comfortable. Always, always have treats! Have a variety of treats on hand during these moments. It's helpful to also try new treats to see what they better respond to!

What should your puppy be exposed to?

I recommend making a simple list. Write down all the things you might see on a daily bases and I mean think of everything. To us, seeing a person holding their crying child at a park is the norm. But unless you provide your dog with that space to observe something similar, they will come into contact with that for the first time and most likely feel a lot of fear and confusion.

Have they been around someone who is bald? Have they been around POC-people in wheelchairs, using a cane or other mobility devices? Long hair, short hair, loud voice, quiet voice. I mean everything you can think of. All different kinds of energy and appearance.

These are the things that should be on your list. This will obviously vary based on what area of the you’re in but try your best to evaluate what they'll most likely come in contact with in your corner of the world. This is just the tip of the iceberg with socialization and I’ll be doing a part 2 on this. Going much more in depth on methods to positively reinforce your dogs in these scenarios. But for now, make that list and I promise it will come in handy!

Thank you so much for reading! If you want to follow me on other outlets, it’s Pawsitivepupspdx on Instagram and I have all of my other links in my bio there. I am currently in the process of developing an online puppy school that will be available in February 2023! Stay tuned, and I look forward to hopefully having you back here next week!