Puppy School in Wentworth Point

Unfortunately, breeders and vets often advice against socialisation before the puppy is fully vaccinated at 16 weeks of age. However, if you follow this advice, I guarantee, you will end up with behavioural issues such as fearfulness, timidness, anti-social behaviours and aggression. I know, I meet dogs like this often.

What we need to understand is that a dog doesn’t have to be abused or have negative experiences to have behavioural issues such as fear-based aggression, a lack of socialisation will do the same! In fact, the lack of socialisation is more often the reason for many unwanted behaviours.

Why? Studies have taught us that if a puppy isn’t socialised within the first 16 weeks of age they will never be completely comfortable with new experiences and in new situations. This is a survival instinct inherited from wolves, anything puppies meet positively within the first four months of their lives becomes normal and acceptable. After 16 weeks of age, puppies change and aren’t adaptable anymore. After this, we can only manage the dog’s behaviour and try and improve the situation but it will not be completely fixed. This is why early socialisation is crucial!