At what age is it safe to socialize a puppy?

Puppies can handle new experiences best between 3 and 12 weeks old. After that stage, they become cautious about new things they haven’t encountered before. Puppies can begin socialization classes as early as 7 to 8 weeks. Veterinarians recommend at least one round of vaccines 7 days before socialization and the first round of deworming. The risk of your puppy getting an infectious disease is increased before 16 weeks. This is also the best time period to socialize them. Don’t wait until they are fully vaccinated, because then you will miss out on the best opportunity to get them comfortable in unknown situations. The first three months of your puppy’s life is important for their development. During these months, the desire to be social outweighs their fear.

Before bringing them home, the previous owner should have started socialising them by introducing them to new situations and people. This is an important time for your puppy, as what they learn and experience now will shape their future behaviour. Your puppy isn't fully vaccinated yet, but it's important to continue socialisation by giving your puppy positive experiences like: Introducing them to other pets - let them meet other healthy, fully vaccinated dogs and cats. Socialise your pup outside once they're fully vaccinated. Puppies are still learning at this age, so continue reward-based training and keep all experiences positive. By keeping experiences positive from day one, you'll help your puppy grow into a confident adult dog, making life more enjoyable for you both. Up to 8 weeks - before you bring your puppy home Wherever your puppy came from, the previous owner should have done a few things, including: Organising their first puppy vaccination Started to toilet training Started socialising them by introducing them to new situations and people.