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506 views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  tabelmabel 
#1 ·
In the past I have owned 5 dogs who were rescues, the last one passed away a few years ago and i've recently got a new puppy. since my last dog passed away i've had bad experiences with friends dogs that i've looked after who are completely unsocialised with other dogs, it was a nightmare to take them for walks and made life very stressful. I'm extremely worried about my puppy turning out that way.

She's a puggle (pug x beagle) but she appears a lot more pug haha. She's currently 10 weeks old and has learnt basic commands, shes also due to start a puppy training class when she is 18 weeks.

Until then, what can I do to ensure she becomes a well socialised dog? I've considered carrying her around places with me since she isn't fully vaccinated so can't yet go for walks, would this be ok? I don't have many friends with dogs so how can I teach her to act around other dogs?

I would be so grateful for any advice! thank you
 
#2 ·
Carrying her is a great plan, it will allow her to experience the world from a safe place.

Socialisation is not about everyone and every dog meeting her. Think quality, not quantity. Letting all and sundry (people and dogs) near a puppy can be overwhelming and frightening - the opposite of what you want. Control the socialisation by being selective, especially with other dogs and kids. Look for calm role model dogs, and adults and children who can be trusted not to get over excited. Socialisation is not about plunging your puppy into every new experience, but rather allowing her to see, hear and get used to people and situations calmly and from a safe position.
 
#3 · (Edited)
Think quality, not quantity.
Think quality AND quantity!! I believe current recommendations are that a young pup should have met minimum 100 different people by 12 weeks and similar on the dog front too:

http://calmercaninestraining.com/2014/01/03/12-things-before-12-weeks/
https://animalhealthcenternh.com/2018/02/19/puppy-socialization/

Agree with everything else though - socialisation definitely isn't just plunging your young pup into a rowdy bunch of kids that want to squeeze it half to death and pull its ears!

100 sounds a lot but i found it really easyto do. It's only about 3 or 4 each day between 8 and 12 weeks.
 
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