Why Socializing Your Puppy is Essential For Long Term Happiness

Puppy Socialization! 

(Yes, that’s a Great Dane in a backpack, we love our Willow!)

Socialization and desensitization for puppies in the juvenile stage is imperative to their ability to live, and furthermore thrive in the developed world.

When you get your young puppy, begin introducing them to the world right away! A common misconception is that you should keep your puppy home for the first few months so they can adjust to their new environment.

That is quite possibly the worst thing you could do for your new puppy! Between 12-14 weeks, your puppy should be having positive interactions with places, people, and other dogs. This is a crucial developmental period that so many pet owners neglect, and the repercussions are paramount. They are quickly left with fearful, anxious dogs that are afraid of the world. This is a huge contributing factor to shelter surrenders in young dogs.

So, what should you do?

Our best advice? Puppy backpack!!! Wear your puppy everywhere with you! Allow them to interact with new people and expose them to public spaces. The backpack allows you to bring your puppy places without worrying about them not having all of their vaccines.

Begin early with outings, car rides, social visits to your vet office just to say hello, allowing your puppy to meet (fully vaccinated, dog social) dogs you know and trust, and get all the pets from strangers. Also, beginning early with grooming and nail trimming practices will save you a lot of grief!

Beginning early with your puppy with games teaching them their name, basic obedience commands, and the art of negotiation with humans and other dogs is also crucial.

Lots of information, right? If you have a new puppy or are thinking of adding to your family, reach out to us! We are always here to answer questions, help with selecting a breeder, helping you select a breed that fits your lifestyle, and of course, with early training and socializing! 

All phone consultations are always free, so please don't hesitate to reach out to Onyx K9 Training -- your personal, dedicated, woman owned dog training business located in Greenville, South Carolina.