Good socialisation is the secret to raising a cheerful, well-adjusted puppy! The Kibbles team has whipped up some tips on how to socialise your pupper and why it’s crucial!
What’s Puppy Socialisation?
All animals, including your pup, goes through a sensitive phase early on when they’re soaking up the world like little sponges. This critical window usually closes when your puppy is 16 to 17 weeks old. During this time, it’s important they meet new faces and furry friends! But once that window closes, they might get a bit scared around new things, leading to fear or even aggression. Puppy socialisation is all about those positive interactions with people and other dogs! Remember, a pup doesn’t need to be mistreated to develop a fear of the unknown.
Why Bother with Socialisation?
For your puppy to thrive, they need to play nice with others and deal with life’s surprise! Well-socialised puppies grow into friendly, happy adults who can confidently live happily with their humans. However; if they miss out on these essential experiences, they might bite or show signs of aggression when meeting new people. If a fearful pup feels trapped, they might respond with a growl or a snap. Frighteningly, behavioural issues from fear can be tough to handle and might result in rehoming your dog or in extreme cases – euthanasia. Yikes! These issues are a leading cause of euthanasia for dogs under the age of two.
How Do I Socialise My Puppy?
Socialisation is easy; just get out there and do it! During their first year, especially in that sensitive period, your puppy should experience as much newness as possible—without feeling overwhelmed, of course. Aim for a fun new adventure every day, with plenty of rest time in between. Make every encounter a positive one with treats, toys, and lots of praise!
At Kibbles, we invite you to bring your pup in for a fun tour of our clinic! It’s a great way for them to meet their future vets in a chilled atmosphere. Just ask the Kibbles team to set up this positive experience!
