Puppy Socialisation can be carried out in the normal everyday environment. The critical period (3-12 weeks) is a time when puppies can take information in very easily BUT if socialisation ceases after this period then most of what has been gained is very easily lost. It is most important that this vital conditioning takes place well into adulthood.

It is vital to ensure that your puppy is a happy traveler either in the car, train or bus. A puppy will need to be under control and calm in the presence of all manner of people, children, other dogs and animals. An sensible owner will also train a pet dog to be steady to stock (farm animals) and loud noises (fireworks, guns, church bells, tractors, vacuum cleaners, washing machines; the list is endless.

A puppy will need to experience a wide variety of different sights, sounds and places to prepare him or her for life in a human environment. This must be done gradually and carefully as puppies may develop fear and flight responses during the first year of their lives.

It is important to socialise puppies from eight weeks, but vaccination programs dictate that they are kept away from the outside world just at this vital stage in their lives. We can make up for this by carrying the puppy and showing him different sights and sounds or taking him in the car to visit a variety of places and people. Condition your puppy to car travel by taking plenty of short, frequent journeys. You can also feed your puppy in the car with the engine running to build up a happy association.

Socialisation, environmental conditioning and general companion obedience training should be continued well into the first year to eighteen months.