THE CASE FOR PUPPY CLASS

Carol M Harris UW-AAB, Michael E. Harris UW-AAB, Ph.D.

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The early socialization of puppies to positive experiences, during the 8 to 16-week Sensitive Period, is essential. This is when proper adaptive strategies and an enduring world view are formed. When asked, we urge our prospective clients, interested in getting a purebred puppy, to be sure of the quality of the breeder, the soundness of the breeding line, to see the sire and especially inquire about the practice of the breeder regarding early socialization. We also advise them to find out when puppies are separated from the dam to be given to a new home. We recommend that 8 to 10 weeks elapse before the separation to allow sufficient time for the puppies to learn the basic social rules of the road and to be exposed to calming signals. If they are looking for a mixed breed puppy the same concerns as with a purebred should be addressed, making sure of the puppy’s health prior to adoption, and whenever possible make certain that the puppy has spent sufficient time with mom prior to adoption. Many behavior-based heartaches can be avoided if these simple steps are taken.

The puppy should be enrolled, as early as possible, in a high-quality group puppy class to further its proper socialization. Completion of the entire vaccination series for common dog diseases is not necessary and should not be a reason to delay enrollment. A high-quality puppy class should require proof of beginning the vaccination sequence by the time of class registration. Indeed, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recently released a position paper recommending puppy classes as soon as the immunization has begun:

“The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated.” 

And further:

“While puppies’ immune systems are still developing during these early months, the combination of maternal immunity, primary vaccination and appropriate care makes the risk of infection relatively small compared to the chance of death by a behavior problem.”

Ian Dunbar, Ph.D., a renowned behaviorist, has stated that the risks of infection are far outweighed by the risks of insufficient early socialization:

“We know that insufficient early socialization causes hard-to-reverse changes in brain function and anatomy, leading to temperament problems later in life, such as fear and aggression towards people. We know these problems are difficult and time-consuming to attempt to resolve in adulthood, yet may be so easily prevented with ample early socialization and handling.”

“The risks associated with attending puppy classes are minimal to nonexistent and the benefits are positively huge: Puppies learn 1) bite inhibition through puppy play and 2) proper interaction with people during off-leash play and while being handled by strangers. And owners learn to train their puppies in a controlled setting in which training is integrated with play. In this setting, a puppy's reward for training is play with other dogs.”

With such lifelong upside potential, you owe to yourself and your puppy to attend a good, scientifically based, puppy socialization and “kindergarten” class. You won’t regret it.