Socializing Your Puppy
The first 16 weeks are critical for shaping the behavior of your puppy for the rest of its life. I follow the Puppy Culture program to set all my puppies up for success. Once they leave my house it is up to the buyer to continue this socialization/desensitization. It is important that puppy owners realize that socialization is not taking your dog to the dog park. It is allowing them to experience as many different situations as possible FEAR FREE. It is very important that fear is not associated with any of these new situations. The puppy should be happy and confident. A simple walk down the street can provide more socialization/desensitization than any dog park and the owner is directly bonding and training with their dog.
This list can give new puppy owners an idea of the different situations you can introduce your puppy to. Every situation should be introduced in a positive way whether you are rewarding the puppy through treats or praise. The first months of your puppies life should be full of confidence building! Since our breed can be standoffish it is important to handle them in a positive manner while they are young. The handling section on this checklist should be noted.