Page 24 - Chow Life - 2025 01 Spring

Puppy & Dog

Socialization Tips

Dog Socialization Is a Lifelong Process
that Begins in Puppyhood
Socializing the dogs in your kennel should start
when they are puppies. Doing so helps to produce
friendlier, outgoing puppies. It also contributes
to calm adult breeder dogs that are equipped to
provide high-quality maternal care to their puppies
and that are socialized and ready for adoption into
forever homes when they are retired.

“A program for puppy socialization may be the best
investment you can make to have more appealing
puppies and healthier, happier adult dogs,” says
Purina animal behaviorist Annie Valuska, PhD.
“Socialization is a fairly small investment in
each puppy, and it pays off big time.”
Allan Miller, breeder and owner of
Evergreen Elite Puppies in Arthur,
Illinois, has been practicing early
neurological stimulation exercises
and socializing his Pembroke Welsh
Corgi puppies for more than 10
years. He has noticed significant
differences.

“Number 1 is the satisfaction of
customers who give five-star reviews
and great feedback,” Miller says. “If
you socialize from the beginning, then
at 5 to 6 years of age when most people
retire and rehome their breeding dogs,
they are already social, crate trained and
walk well on a leash.”

“It is so important to build a solid foundation when
puppies are young,” Dr. Valuska says. “Dogs that
get gentle handling and are socialized from 3 to 12
weeks of age are more likely to have confidence and
do well when they are exposed to new things.”
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