I'm not so sure. In all the books and online info we read prior to getting him socialisation refered to all areas - people, dogs, other animals, noises - as you said all the things that will be part of his day to day life. So I think if people take it upon themselves to ensure they check these things out, they will find the advice and understanding they need. I think the biggest issue is when people have not even heard of it....

We took our cocker out in a carrying (not carrier!! to clarify) bag before he could go on the floor to at least get started on the noises and outdoor elements of life movement around him prior to him setting foot (or in his case paw!) out of the house.

Puppy school a start btw! In terms of other dogs (who he is currently very unsure) it helped his confidence and along with asking owners if we can meet their dogs on every walk from day 1 I'm sure he will come along quickly

On the plus side, noises don't seem to faze him at all!! Including two thunder storms since we got him - hoorah!!