Quote:
Originally Posted by goodvic2
Just a question to you puppy owners....
The social development of the dogs mind is at it's most crucial at between 4-6 weeks with other dogs and 4-12 weeks with humans. (although some argue that it is up to 16 weeks) After this point it is still possible for dogs to learn social skills, but according to the experts, if it is not done in this window you can really hinder their social behaviour.
My question is: Are puppy owners made aware of this when they buy a puppy?
The reason I am interested is because the OP is basically not allowing the dog out until it is 12 weeks old. According to the experts, it has missed the socialisation period.
It seems to be quite common that people talk about the vaccination procedure, but not about the socialisation period. Am I missing something?
As I only have problematic rescue dogs, I only see the benefits of good socialisation and although agree it is important for the dog to be healthy, an un-socialised dog is more a problem.
Can anybody enlighten me?
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I completely see where you're coming from, though I can't really say much on the matter. I got my pup at 10 weeks old and obviously I couldn't walk him for another 3 weeks or so because of vaccinations. However, I always took him out in my arms wherever I went so he could get used to noises and such. I've had no problems with my Lab, who will be a year old in about 2 weeks or so, until recently as he has developed a fear, which we are sorting out.
However, I'm not sure that all first time dog owners are aware about the socialisation period. I knew, even though he was my first puppy as I have lots of family and friends with dogs, but when I took him to the vets for his first vaccination, my vet also told us that it would be a good idea to take him out to get used to things.