by Pat Gray

Created on: May 28, 2009

Socialization is the process of introducing a puppy to new people, animals and situations. There is a window of opportunity, from three weeks to approximately 12 weeks of age, after which socialization is possible, but more difficult, depending on the dog and his earlier experiences.

~ Immunization and socialization.
Proper socialization is critical because a well-socialized puppy becomes a more stable, happy and reliable dog. Experts now believe that socialization is more important than complete immunization because of the difficulty in dealing with behavioral problems in older dogs, caused by a lack of socialization. Many dogs end up in shelters or being euthanized because of issues (aggression, biting or separation anxiety, for example) that could have been prevented with proper socialization.

While puppies are still nursing and for a brief time afterwards, the mother's immunity is passed to the puppies, if she has been properly vaccinated. If a weaned puppy is allowed to mix with vaccinated dogs or other healthy puppies, they should be safe before they are fully vaccinated. There are vaccinations that can be started as early as six weeks - if you are in any doubt, talk to your veterinarian.

~ The critical period
Psychologically, the socialization period is broken down into two phases. From three to six weeks, puppies are forming bonds with siblings and humans, are curious and are eager to explore the world around them - this is the ideal time for them to be handled by a lot of people and introduced to new experiences. From six to 12 weeks, puppies enter a "fear period" when they are super-sensitive to negative stimulation (scolding, loud noises, aggression). During this second phase, it's important that all the associations they make are positive.

~ Good pre/post natal care
Although the critical socialization period starts at week three, the experiences of the mother before her litter is born and the experiences of the new family after birth also influence the dog's adult behavior. ENS (early neural stimulation or bio-sensor method) is an puppy development system that stimulates the nervous system by mildly stressing a puppy before their eyes are open. Handling, noises and new scents are used to stimulate the puppies brain, and improved heath and learning ability are often the result.

It should be noted that puppy mill owners and most backyard breeders do NOT provide adequate care for mother or puppies, and do NOT concern themselves with this early socialization

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