Socialisation schedule

Birth

Puppy will be with dam and siblings, but should experience human scent (both male and female) at a very early stage

3 Weeks

 All environmental stimuli should be interesting and non-threatening to the pup.

Breeder should expose to household noises (washing machine, vacuum, TV).

Start to accustom to a normal domestic environment.

Plenty of handling: start grooming, mock vet examinations.

6 Weeks

Puppy normally transfers to owner.

Should meet all the family (men, women, children, other pets and babies).

Car journeys.

Postman/milkman.

Visitors of all shapes and sizes.

Start to accustom to being left unattended.

Add food to puppy’s bowl while it eats.

Consider starting exposure under controlled low disease risk status.

9 Weeks

Start to introduce stronger stimuli (street noises, crowds, children’s play area).

Begin leash training.

Ideal time for puppy socialisation classes under veterinary supervision.

Avoid dogs that are aggressive or badly behaved in parks, as these may encourage fear and teach bad behaviour

12 Weeks

Ensure a broadening range of experiences

15 Weeks

Lessons learnt can be forgotten unless you reinforce them. This should continue right up until social maturity – typically after 12 months of age.<