Early training and the impact of fear

Early training is key for the socialisation of puppies and kittens. This article looks at recent research on puppy and kitten socialisation, neutering and training methods, as well as how clinics and owners can improve the pet's experience of clinic visits.

The peak socialisation period for puppies is between 6 and 12 weeks of age. This is the key period where new sounds, smells, sights and experiences all combine to inform the young dog what is to be deemed ‘safe’ as they grow up (Cazeaux, 2021; Landsberg et al, 2023). While research needs to be continued, although some behavioural traits have genetic roots (Puurunen et al, 2020), these inherited traits are affected by a puppy's early experiences.

Excellent breeders will discuss this with owners, and will ensure that from birth the litter has been gently and carefully exposed to other pets, well-behaved children, noises, such as the doorbell and washing machine, as well as a variety of people and environments such as grass, carpets and shiny surfaces, in a positive manner (Williams, 2023). These positive experiences must continue when the puppy has the stressful task of fitting into their new home, hopefully before they reach the end of their socialisation period at 12 weeks, to allow this safe exposure to novel stimuli to continue.