KEEN K9® PUPPY SCHOOL

Early puppy socialization is the most effective way to raise a well-adjusted keen dog. Positive experiences shape your puppy’s view of the world and is essential for healthy development. Puppies who miss the critical socialization period often develop fears at approximately 5 months of age. We offer low-cost puppy socialization classes for puppies aged 8-20 weeks.

EARLY PUPPY SOCIALIZATION

Between 3-12 weeks of age, puppies bond with what is familiar. Enjoying “safe” fun helps puppies associate unfamiliar people and dogs with good things. It is critical that these experiences are positive, while negative experiences must be avoided as much as possible. Unfamiliar visitors should also be from all walks of life. An individual in a business suit appears and carries a different scent than someone who works outdoors. Be sure the visitors are not known to the puppy. Living with a family of ten is not the same as meeting ten individuals from different backgrounds. Uniqueness counts!

CHILDREN and PUPPIES

From a puppy’s perspective, children can be frightening, i.e. running quickly without apparent direction while making screeching sounds. A puppy could possibly mistake a child for injured prey. It is important to gradually introduce these type of situations before introducing your puppy to a real child.

THE WORLD OUTSIDE

Since puppies are social animals, until you’ve known a fearful dog,  the importance of early puppy socialization and experiences may be overlooked. Positive exposure is key. Introducing puppies to people, animals, surfaces, textures, sound, scent, etc, in a good way minimizes the likelihood of fear-based responses as your puppy develops.