Socializing

We take our job of socializing our puppies seriously and it is our Joy.
We expose the puppies to the sights, textures and sounds of a normal family home.
Our puppies are handled from birth, then on the third day we begin holding the puppies
in different positions and handling their feet, ears, nose and mouth with our fingers, a Qtip
an eraser, a spoon etc. By 3-4 weeks of age the puppies are playing with their siblings and
mom and starting to do a bit of exploring. They play with lots of different types of toys to
stimulate learning and are able to begin going outside around 5-6 weeks of age.
From 5 weeks on we also are working with the puppies on:

* House Manners
* Walking with a Leash
* Introduction to Dogs, Cats etc.
* Riding in a Vehicle
* Basic Commands
* Grooming Coat & Clipping Nails

Good Boy!!!

Heel.......

Hey.......
It works!

Even if his collar is coming off!!!

Sit.........

Our Resident Trainer Working With A Puppy

How Do We Socialize?

The following information was written by a breeder in Ohio. Thank you Paula Drake (Akita's)
It so well described our thoughts that I wanted to share it with you.

Socializing Puppy

The period between three and 16 weeks is very critical in a dog’s development. This time is referred to
by dog experts as the canine socialization period. During this time, a puppy learns about the world in
experiences a puppy’s memory is developed. which he lives. Everything is a first impression.
Everything is a new experience. From these first

A puppy is part genetics and part environmental experiences. A reputable breeder has done his part in
producing puppies with strong, stable genetic predispositions. At three weeks, a puppy is ready to be
molded by each new day and all it brings. It is very important that the breeder expose the young puppy
to a safe, happy world full of stimulation,
gentle challenges, and positive rewards.

Learning during this socialization period is permanent. The puppy carries those first impressions
throughout life. It is so important these socialization experiences be positive.

Specifics learned during this period include learning how to play. The mother dog teaches the basics,
then the puppy tries its new skills with its litter mates. Then the breeder introduces toys, reinforcing
the fun and reward in playing by the rules. Other important socialization skills to be learned include
housebreaking (being a neat dog), spending time in a dog crate (having some quiet time), walking on a
leash and coming when called (knowing who is boss), and fitting in with the pack (learning respect for
family members).

By seven or eight weeks a puppy may be ready to expand its world from the breeder’s home to its own
home. A breeder knows when each individual puppy is ready to leave the comfort of its litter. The
breeder then matches each puppy with a home suited for each puppy’s temperament. It is imperative
the new family continue with daily socialization and positive new experiences.

The most stable dog is the one who has had a multitude of good first experiences. This dog knows what
is normal and what is not. This dog knows humans are good, can be trusted, and will provide food,
warmth, and love.

Shaping a puppy during the socialization period is all up to us. With our love and understanding a
puppy will develop to its full potential. Nothing less should be acceptable. It is the best chance for a dog
to have a long healthy life in one home and not end up losing its home because of behavioral problems
– problems that could have easily been avoided with proper socialization as a puppy followed by
additional socialization and training in the new home.
When such problems develop, who is at fault? The dog?

Canis Major Breeders Round Table ~ Paula Drake

Stay.......