Frequently Asked Questions

We schedule puppy classes when we have enough puppies (we need 3-5 pups to have a class). If you don't see a scheduled class on our Puppy Training page when you need one, please let us know and we'll see if we can get one scheduled!

Puppy socialization matters — protecting a new puppy from disease is important, but so is proper socialization.Under-socialization has real risks — it can lead to fear, anxiety, phobias, avoidance, reactivity, aggression, and even behavioral euthanasia.Behavior, not disease, is the top killer — the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) states behavioral issues are the leading cause of death in dogs under three years old.AVSAB's recommendation — puppies should get proper socialization before they're fully vaccinated.Always check with your vet — get guidance on which specific activities are safe for your puppy at their stage.For more info — read about our disease prevention practices

The critical socialization period in dogs is from around 3 weeks to around 13 weeks. During this developmental period, puppies learn what kinds of things are safe and normal. If your puppy didn't attend a puppy class or have much socialization before 13 weeks, don't despair! It's never too late to help an older puppy or adult dog feel more comfortable encountering new things or situations. If your puppy is over 16 weeks of age, please contact us for a free consultation to discuss our individualized socialization and training offerings.