Socialisation involves exposing an animal to a range of experiences to help them prepare for and cope with different situations, interactions, and environments.
Between 3 and 17 weeks of age (the critical socialisation period), a puppy’s experiences will shape their mental health, and how they behave into adulthood. It is essential for their development that you give them a wide range of positive experiences, particularly during this time. Expose your puppy to different sights, sounds, smells, people and other animals, to ensure they grow into a well-adjusted adult who relates well to others and the world around them. See the article ‘How can I socialise my puppy?’ for more information.
Reward-based puppy classes
The best way to begin socialising your puppy is to enrol them in reward-based puppy classes (also known as ‘puppy school’ or ‘puppy kindy’), usually offered through veterinary clinics and RSPCA Care Centres.
Home visits
You can take your puppy to meet friends and family and their companion animals, either at your house or their house. But you should make sure that other dogs and puppies are friendly, healthy, and up-to-date with their worming, vaccinations, and external parasite prevention.
Parks and other public areas
Your vet will be able let you know when it is okay to take your puppy to other places such as the dog park.
