These are strange times, there has been no time like this that we have known. So it goes without saying that we are all learning how to live in this new world of ours. With the “stay at home” orders many opted to take advantage of their time at home and add a new dog to the family. Puppies need socializing, they need it right away and depending on where they came from they may already need to overcome issues that they are exhibiting.

Each puppy is an individual so exactly how you socialize will factor solely on your puppy.

Socializing - to make social; make fit for life in companionship with others.

Socializing your puppy is all about preparing them for the life that they will live and the world that they will be living in. It is a big job but once your puppy joins the family it’s up to you. Hopefully the person who had your puppy before you gave them a head start in the socializing department. Although many puppies through no fault of their own have been deprived of early socialization. So once they come to you, it’s go time.

As I said, these are strange times and very different from just a few months ago. Things have changed and getting out and about is much more difficult. So what is the best way to socialize your puppy? Right from the start you can socialize in your own home; break your home into different quadrants, new places to explore. Your yard can become sectioned off so that your puppy obtains exciting adventures daily. Think “new experience” when you consider socializing.

I understand that many Veterinarians tell us that we should not take our puppy out in public until after all of their shots are completed; but if you do that then you will miss out on a great deal of “prime time” for socializing. Depending on when your puppy started their shots they may have had one set or two by the time you get them. You can safely start socializing in your home and even out on your front yard. I would not wait too long before searching for “safe” places for them to visit.

The yard of a close friend to wander in, perhaps broken into sections as well.

A neighbor who has a friendly dog in a safe yard.
A shopping cart, through a store that is open.
Lots of car rides.
If you are lucky, maybe a littermate to come over for some play.
Find other new puppy guardians to get together with.
How about your garage?

Use your imagination, think new experience. Socializing means meeting new dogs or all sizes and ages, new people of all ages, wheel chairs, strollers, screaming kids, statues (a biggy), different surfaces to walk on, heights, climbing, big buildings etc. But take it slow, too much socializing at one time can backfire. Slow and steady wins the race. Let your puppy tell you how much is too much. Never push, allow your puppy to explore in their comfort zone. This beginning time is very important, it is your job to make sure that nothing bad happens. No mean dog encounters, no strangers touching when your puppy doesn’t want to be touched. If something scary arises, take it slow and positive.

So if you have a new puppy right now; and I know there a lot of you out there, get socializing. There is not time like the present.

Questions?