Puppy Socialisation: Should I Have a Puppy Party?
First Published: 16/08/2018
Last Updated: 24/01/2024
Remember when baby showers weren’t a thing? Now there’s a new kid on the block – and it could be a great way of socialising your new puppy. We’ve got the lowdown on the puppy party, and how this latest idea could help your dog’s development and wellbeing.
What on earth is a puppy party?
Your puppy’s early months are a vital time in his development. The experiences he has during this time – the things he learns about his environment, and the consequences of his actions – will affect his behaviour and progress forever.
Before your puppy reaches around 12 weeks old, he goes through a development stage that dog experts call ‘the socialisation period’. During this time, he’s open to new experiences, and the things that happen to him now are less likely to scare him, or to become an issue, later in life.
Help your dog to become happy and confident
Encouraging your dog to socialise with other dogs – and, of course, humans! – during this time can be key to your canine companion growing up to become a happy, well-behaved and confident dog.
A puppy party is a fun name for puppy socialisation classes, which are usually run by experienced veterinary nurses or animal care experts.
They provide a safe space in which your puppy can play, meet other dogs and discover new experiences, and are usually great fun for your pet.
A word of warning…
Puppy socialisation classes won’t miraculously provide your new puppy with all the experiences he needs for his development, and it’s important to choose a class that’s well organised and run, and not too large.
Socialising your pet requires a lot of work on your part, but is sure to pay off when you have a well-behaved and confident dog as a result.
Topics covered by puppy socialisation classes
- Behaviour
- Dental care
- Pest control
- Toilet training
- Socialisation and development
- Diet and nutrition
- Training your dog
Usually held once a week, puppy socialisation classes are also a useful source of information for you as the owner of a brand new pup. They cover everything from nutrition and dental care to pest control, toilet training and general behavioural issues, and give you the chance to ask questions about your puppy’s health and wellbeing.
Puppy parties are usually suitable for puppies aged between nine and 14 weeks, and your pup can attend as soon as he’s had his first vaccination.
“Puppy socialisation classes cover everything from nutrition and dental care to pest control, toilet training and general behavioural issues.”
Want to know more about puppy parties?
For details of your nearest puppy party or socialisation class, contact your local vet.
Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page, or speak to a vet online using Online Vets.