Puppy socialisation and puppy preschool

Socialisation means gently showing your puppy the world, so they grow into a calm, confident dog. RSPCA Australia says the most important time for this is from about 3 to 14 weeks of age. That’s why it pays to start straight away, even before your puppy can go for walks.

Book puppy preschool early

• Look for a positive, reward-based puppy preschool. Many vet clinics run them.
• Many classes take puppies from about 8 to 16 weeks old, after their first vaccination. Good classes fill up, so book early.
• The Australian Veterinary Association says a well-run class in a clean place is safe for puppies who haven’t finished their vaccinations.

Before vaccinations are finished

• Carry your puppy out to see the world: a café, the shops, a busy street, a friend’s place.
• Invite calm, healthy, fully vaccinated dogs over to your home.
• Help your puppy meet all sorts of people, like people in hats, children, and people using walking frames or wheelchairs.
• Play everyday sounds, like the vacuum, the doorbell, thunder or fireworks, at a low volume for short times.
• Let your puppy walk on different surfaces at home, like grass, tiles, wood and concrete.
• Practise gentle handling of ears, paws, mouth and tail. Try short car trips too.

Places to avoid for now

Parvovirus is a serious, often deadly disease in puppies. It spreads through dog poo and can live in soil for more than a year. Until your vet says your puppy is fully vaccinated:

• Avoid dog parks, and grass or paths where lots of unknown dogs go.
• Don’t put your puppy down on the floor at pet shops or the vet clinic. Carry them, or wait in the car until you’re called.
• Your own yard is usually fine, as long as no sick or unvaccinated dogs have used it.

When can my puppy go for walks?

The last puppy vaccination is usually at about 16 weeks. Protection then takes 1 to 2 weeks to build, so most puppies can start walks at around 17 to 18 weeks old. Your vet will tell you when your puppy is ready.

Keep early walks short and at a walking pace. Too much exercise can affect growing bones and muscles, especially in large breeds.

Keep it positive

• Pair every new thing with something good, like a treat, a game or praise.
• Keep sessions short, and try just one or two new things at a time.
• Never force your puppy. Let them watch from a distance, sniff, or walk away. Reward calm, curious looks.
• It’s OK to calmly reassure a worried puppy. If they stay scared, move away and try again another day, starting with something easier.