Socializing Your Puppy

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    You often read advice that in order to be more confident, friendly and calm as adults, new puppies should be socialized. This means more than just the occasional trip to the pet store and playing with the kids. Many dogs that are isolated in puppyhood remain fearful and suspicious their entire lives. The developmental period between one and five months is extremely important for puppies. Providing them with a rich, stimulating, varied environment virtually ensures a confident, cheerful dog.

    Be careful not to expose your dog to viruses, unknown dogs or feces from unknown dogs until the dog has had its puppy shots. This is usually by 12 weeks of age. Check with your vet.


    The Right Beginning
    It is illegal in some states to sell puppies younger than eight weeks of age. There are several reasons puppies need to stay with their mother and littermates. Primarily, puppies begin to learn bite inhibition and limits. If they bite too hard in play or try stealing food or toys from mother or siblings, they are disciplined in dog language they understand very well. Also, the younger you get your puppy, the harder housebreaking may be....
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