As a new-puppy owner, you may know that you need to socialize your puppy. But what does that really mean? Socialization at a basic level is creating an association between two stimuli (a leash and a walk, for example, or eating a yummy treat while a bicycle goes by), hopefully a positive one. Science indicates that the most important socialization “window of opportunity” for your puppy is between 4 and 16 weeks of age. A well socialized puppy is more likely to perceive the world as a safe and fun place. Everything he or she experiences at this age will be considered a normal part of life.
Program details:
| Week Number | The week in a nutshell | Physical exercise / Mental Stimulation |
| "Fun"dations 1 |
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Puppies will explore objects and test their young muscles while climbing into, out of, onto and off of a variety of appropriate objects. |
| "Fun"dations 2 |
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The focus will be based on balanced development including stretches (great for puppies who are a little bit shy of being handled) and exercises to the left and right and “around”. |
| Build Clarity 3 |
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Exercises and games will focus on strength and hind-end awareness. Going up, going down, under, over and through. |
| Confidence 4 |
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Playing with other dogs will build both physical and social intelligence. Pups will gain confidence in having their collar held.
Outside, pups will get to investigate tunnels, bikes and skateboards 'close up'. More gentle stretching exercises increase trust and body confidence. |
| Beyond the Basics |
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This continued daytime care is useful if you would like your dog to continue developing beyond the puppy program or get a start on some new skills. |