References
How to run a puppy party: social saviour or social demon?
Abstract
A previous article (
The importance of the experiences met in the first 10 to 14 weeks of the puppy's life in shaping the dog's future competence as a domestic companion was discussed in a previous article (Hargrave, 2013). All veterinary practices are aware of the concepts of socialisation, environmental referencing and habituation and most will have at least tried to run puppy classes as an aid to puppy development and a bonding exercise for clients. Although these events are intended to enhance the competence of the puppy in dealing with the complexities of life in a human environment, Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourists, members of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and Veterinary Behaviourists are increasingly reporting cases involving dogs that present with a lack of social and environmental competence despite their attendance at early training sessions described as puppy classes (Seksel, 2012). Although these puppies may be presenting with problems predisposed due to emotional and behavioural developmental problems that have occurred prior to the puppy's presentation for vaccination, it suggests that not all puppy classes are currently catering for the variety of needs that attending puppies may already have, or may be soon to develop.
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