Regina Dog Training

Socialization, what is it and why is it so Important?

​

​

Puppy's have different developmental stages, and the experiences they have during these developmental stages impact their behavior.  The stage of development that has the most impact on the puppy's future self is between the ages of 3 -16 weeks. There are different areas of socialization that impact a puppies development.

​

Same Species Socialization

Often, puppy owners speak of socialization as the need to have their puppy interact with other dogs so they will become socialized and learn how to behave with other dogs. Most puppies will learn canine interaction skills from their litter mates and mother, before they are placed in their forever homes. The developmental stage for the greatest learning for this is between the ages of 3 to 14 weeks. It is strongly recommended that puppies stay with their litter mates and mother until they are at least 8 weeks of age. Removing them earlier increases the risk of poor same-species social skills. 

Puppy play groups (with appropriate supervision) are a great way to continue this area of socialization.

​

Environmental Socialization

This encompasses everything your pup will interact with during his or her lifetime. Out is