The Critical Period of Socialization

Did you know? Puppies go through different stages of development as they grow! It is accepted in the dog behavior community that the first 16 weeks of life are considered to be the “Critical Period of Socialization” in puppies.

Puppy Training should focus on coaching families to maximize this window of time including: Safe socialization protocols, foundational basic training skills, safety skills and behaviors and more!

Safe Socialization: Often the word, “Socialization” is thought of in relation to interactions with other dogs. And while that is part of what socialization is about; it’s not the whole picture. Socialization includes thoughtful and calculated exposure to different environments, surfaces, noises and more.

Socialization is NOT simply exposure. This can actually backfire by causing a fear trigger.

Working with a skilled and knowledgeable trainer to guide you, help you read your dog’s body language and provide you with an appropriate protocol for your pup is key!

Foundational Skills: Teaching basic foundational skills like sit, stay, and recall can be life savers…literally! The time to teach your puppy is now so that in an emergency situation your puppy has the skills and practice to be able to listen.

During this magical window of time puppies are more sensitive to their environment and their experiences.

Safety Skills: As part of basic obedience, teaching puppies to listen under distractions to certain cues can literally be a life saver! For example, door manners and recall cues help with curious puppies who want to jet out the front door!

But…. Doesn’t this Critical Period of Socialization compete with vaccination schedules? YES! It does. There are safe ways to ensure your puppy is safe guarded from disease while also addressing their developmental needs.

Learn more here: American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior Position Statement on Early Puppy Socialization.