Sometimes I feel, like after all the preaching we do to families coming to us for their new companion and best friend, I don’t think it sets in just how important Socialization is, what it means, and how to do it. Socialization starts with the breeder, but this is not the Socialization I am talking about. Most puppies leave us at 10-16 weeks of age. Socialization needs to come from YOU, the new caretaker/slave/owner/best friend. Socialization means taking your puppy OUTSIDE of the home, to as many new places, and experiences, around strangers, children, other dogs, cats, horses, guinea pigs, you name it! Socialization does NOT mean inviting your neighbor over to the house for social hour, does not mean your child’s friends coming over for a play date, or the neighbor’s dog that slips under the fence and rears his head to come play with your dog. I see way too many people keeping their puppy in a bubble for fear of contracting parvo as the main reason, lack of time and commitment, and a variety of other reasons. I can’t stress enough how important Socialization is, and getting your puppy out and about to different areas. 3 new senses each day during his/her fragile developing mind. Don’t want or have time to socialize? Know what the consequences are? A dog that barks and growls at nearly every passing dog while on your leisurely walk around the block. A dog that you have to put in another room because he lunges or jumps on people every time someone comes inside your home. A dog that runs and hides. A dog that pees on himself. Have you ever seen people who show up at places, open their dog to their vehicle without a leash, and their dog jumps out wagging his tail, and listens to every little thing their owner says? This came from an owner who Socialized their dog, and also Training.