Puppy classes & socialization

[gymangel812]

Are puppy classes necessary for socialization? I'm definently capable of training my new puppy on my own but should I take my puppy to classes anyways for socialization? If I just socialize her without classes, what places do you all suggest I take her to socialize her? I'm not too keen on taking her to dog parks or pet stores until she's had all of her shots, where could i take her in the mean time? since I read that it's very important to socialize puppies between 8 & 12 weeks. thanks for the help

 

[lizzybeth727]

I ALWAYS suggest puppy classes for socialization. Try especially to find a positive reinforcement class, and one that has puppy play times where the puppies can play together off leash.

The trouble with socialization, as you mentioned, is that you can't take your dog to places where there could be sick dogs. But what's so great about training classes (the good ones, at least) is that all the dogs have to have proof of vaccinations, so it's a fairly safe place to take your puppy.

I'm sure you can find more threads on this site about socialization, and there are a TON of articles online about puppy socialization.

 

[Maxy24]

I would do them if you can, they are GREAT for socialization. As for dog-dog socialization try to find family and friends with vaccinated dogs to play with until your pup gets her shots. As for socialization with people take her to regular people parks or playgrounds to meet all sorts of people. You may run into a few dogs there as well so don't be afraid to ask if they have all their shots and if the owner says they do I would still prevent to much contact with saliva, urine, feces and genital areas. Keep her away from other dogs feces especially since I'm pretty sure that's how parvo is spread. When you go on walks ask anyone who shows interest if they would like to pet her since they may not ask for fear of being bothersome to you. Walks her by bus stops when kids usually get off since they may like to pet her. Unfortunately I don't think she can o to puppy classes either until she has all her shots so you pretty much have to do your own careful dog-dog socialization until then. I'm glad your being so diligent about socialization, you'll be rewarded for it in the end!

 

[lizzybeth727]

Many puppy classes do let puppies 8-12 weeks start. You're right, gymangel, most socialization takes place during this age period.

 

[adojrts]

Just a word of warning about puppy classes and off leash socializing, make sure they keep the large puppies with the large puppies and the small with the small. Nothing like trying to socialize a pup and scaring the crap out of it and creating an issue that can now last for the life of the dog.

 

[corgipower]

Just a word of warning about puppy classes and off leash socializing, make sure they keep the large puppies with the large puppies and the small with the small. Nothing like trying to socialize a pup and scaring the crap out of it and creating an issue that can now last for the life of the dog.

Very true ~ also, make sure they stop the socializing play sessions if there is even a hint of a problem. Some puppies can be aggressive even at 8-12 weeks, and you don't want them scaring your puppy.

 

[lizzybeth727]

Very true ~ also, make sure they stop the socializing play sessions if there is even a hint of a problem.

This is a good point, but, you also have to be able to trust that your trainer probably has a lot more experience than you do about running play sessions (and if he/she doesn't, get a new trainer!). THere's a lot of "play" body language that looks a lot like aggression, and if you're not experienced in watching dogs' body language, you might mistake it.