6 Tips on How to Pick a Puppy Socialization Class!
First of all, do not wait until your puppy finishes their vaccinations to start classes! You will miss an ever-important socialization time frame that you can not get back. Be smart & safe with your choice of a class. Many bad habits are unknowingly reinforced in those first few months and knowing how to handle those quickly so you aren’t starting with habits that need to be re-trained will be a big advantage to you and your new puppy! With that said, choose where you take your puppy for the first few months. Avoid letting your puppy walk around high-traffic areas like big-box stores, veterinary clinics, and parks with lots of dogs and other wildlife. Alternately, just because your puppy finishes their vaccines, does not mean they are now free to go wherever, whenever!
Most dogs need to attend group classes, but not all classes are created equal!
What should I look for in a puppy socialization class?
1) Consider visiting a class or two before your puppy even arrives! This will give you a realistic view of what to expect, and experience what the classes are about.
2) Consider a private session or two with your trainer. You have the opportunity to ask questions, and if possible, visit the location of the class so your puppy isn’t experiencing a new place and other puppies with their people, which can be overwhelming for a young puppy.
3) Ask if there is a limit to the number of puppies that attend. A good amount is 4-6 puppies, things can get chaotic very quickly. Classes should not be a free-for-all. Puppies should be able to engage at their pace by observing and feeling safe.
4) Choose a facility with low traffic, high cleaning & disinfecting processes! Avoid big-box stores, dog daycare facilities, and other high-volume places.
5) If your puppy is fearful, make sure to read about Puppy Fear Periods and what to do to decrease their effect on your puppy. Never force them into a situation they aren’t ready for. They are babies still!
6) Building a relationship with a trainer that you trust is invaluable. Choose someone that you feel comfortable being honest with, who wants to meet YOUR goals, and has the experience to handle many different issues that may pop up!
A good Puppy Socialization Class is invaluable and a bad experience can be so detrimental. Ask friends, a local pet retailer, pet sitter, or other pet professional for their recommendations!
