What are some key tips for socializing a puppy?

For an adult dog to be confident and well-adjusted, he must be well socialized as a puppy. That means introducing him to everything he’ll be exposed to in his lifetime — many different types of people, other pets, his veterinarian, grooming tools, household appliances, cars, bicycles, et cetera. Everything you can think of. Karen Sueda, a Veterinary Behaviorist in Los Angeles, says the window of opportunity is between four and fourteen weeks: “dogs that don’t go through a good socialization process may actually develop fear or aggression issues when they get older.”

Although socialization should start early, Sueda says the process continues throughout a dog’s life. A puppy training class is a good place to start.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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