Why is puppy socialization so important?
Before bringing home a new puppy, you may feel bombarded by advice to “get the puppy socialized.” But what does that actually mean?
As humans, our definition of “socializing” is face-to-face contact with other people (for me, a total introvert, it means dragging myself to an event when I’d rather be watching movies on the couch!) Guardians might sign their puppy up for play sessions with other puppies, whether set up informally in someone’s backyard or more formal play groups, usually organized by dog trainers. This is a good idea, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle!
In the old days, guardians were advised to isolate their puppies before they’d “had all their shots,” but further research uncovered the critical “socialization window,” which is the first three months of a puppy’s life. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends exposing a puppy to as many new people, places, and things during this period (their position statement advises about vaccine schedules).
So why is this so important? In a nutshell, early socialization is fear prevention. By exposing your puppy to something (say, the vacuum cleaner) during his critical period, in a way that doesn’t cause him to become fearful of it (obviously don’t turn it on and chase him around with it!), you reduce the chances of your puppy being afraid of the vacuum cleaner later in life.
In one experiment from 1961, puppies who were given only minimal contact with people became profoundly fearful of people. This kind of research would be considered unethical to conduct now! (Unfortunately, we’ve all heard anecdotes about how COVID-19 lockdowns led to undersocialized puppies and dogs.)
Fear in dogs is bad news. We want our dogs to be friendly and sociable with people, to be able to walk down the street unafraid of every little thing they encounter, to play and interact with other dogs. It’s also important to note that once a dog acquires fear, it is tough to undo. Better to not install fear in the first place!
So for the first three months of your puppy’s life, pack in as many good new experiences as possible. Put him in a stroller or baby sling, grab some treats and hand sanitizer (for people who want to pet your puppy), and show him the world. Don’t force him into any situation where he seems uncomfortable, and if it seems like he’s been pushed beyond his comfort zone, take him out of the situation ASAP. The key message you want your puppy to learn is: “Hey! The world is a fun and safe place, and we’re going to explore it on your terms.”
Have fun exposing your puppy to…
People: men with beards, shaved heads, crazy hairstyles, babies, kids, teenagers, people with canes or walkers, people in wheelchairs, people with unusual walks, joggers
Occupations: police officers, food delivery drivers, constructions workers, mail carriers
Objects: large plastic garbage bins, skateboards, bikes, rakes, shovels, leaf blowers, ladders, umbrellas, trucks
Just to name a few! Get started with my Puppy Socialization Bingo Card free download. If you know someone else with a new puppy, share it with them and see who can get a “bingo” first!
Hectic schedules can make it tough to take your new puppy on frequent socialization outings. Outsourcing your puppy’s socialization and training to a qualified professional is a perfectly valid option! If you’re in Toronto, check out my day training packages for new puppy parents.
