|
|
Puppy Essentials + Socialization
|
Socialization:
It's important NOT to miss this period! The critical window for socializing puppies is 8-16 weeks. Some places include Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, etc. Once your puppy has received its 2nd set of shots, you can take them to restaurants with dog-friendly patios. A neighborhood park where children play is always a great place for socialization. Your puppy should meet children, other puppies, and people during this period. Stay away from dog parks!
34 Stores That Don’t Ask You To Leave Your Dog Outside While You Shop
It's important NOT to miss this period! The critical window for socializing puppies is 8-16 weeks. Some places include Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, etc. Once your puppy has received its 2nd set of shots, you can take them to restaurants with dog-friendly patios. A neighborhood park where children play is always a great place for socialization. Your puppy should meet children, other puppies, and people during this period. Stay away from dog parks!
34 Stores That Don’t Ask You To Leave Your Dog Outside While You Shop
"I'm so impressed with the emphasis Wunderhaus puts on early socialization. At my training center,
What A Great Dog!, we see nearly 1,000 new pups every year. I love the GSD breed, especially the well bred ones (like those from Wunderhaus). But, I have to admit that German Shepherds are the number one breed that gets brought in at 7 - 9 months with major fear related behaviors (like being dog/people reactive or aggressive). This breed is incredibly smart and eager to please. But in my experience, lack of early socialization is no less than crippling.
Kudos to Wunderhaus for starting your pups off right and steering your pup owners in the right direction. I'm excited for more of your awesome pups to become regulars at WAGD!!"
Maureen Patin
Owner / Head Trainer
What a Great Dog! Training Center
Great Articles:
When Can I Take My Puppy Out?
Socializing Your Puppy : Why 'Later Is Too Late"
Analyzing Dog Behavior and Puppy Behavior
Cheerful Interrupter or Engagement?
Jill Kessler Miller's "I Am Not A Dog Park Advocate"
When Can I Take My Puppy Out?
Socializing Your Puppy : Why 'Later Is Too Late"
Analyzing Dog Behavior and Puppy Behavior
Cheerful Interrupter or Engagement?
Jill Kessler Miller's "I Am Not A Dog Park Advocate"
© WUNDERHAUS GERMAN SHEPHERDS LLC 2025