Building a Confident Puppy: Why Socialisation is Key
Raising a confident, well-adjusted dog starts early and one of the most powerful tools we have is socialisation. But socialisation isn’t just about meeting other dogs… it’s about helping your puppy feel safe and secure in a wide range of situations.
Between 3 and 14 weeks of age (even up to 16 weeks for some breeds), puppies go through a key development stage where their brains are like little sponges , soaking up new experiences and learning what’s safe and what’s scary. This is the ideal time to gently introduce them to the world in a way that builds trust and confidence.
Think:
Meeting friendly people of all shapes, sizes, and ages
Exploring new surfaces and environments (like grass, wood floors, or busy pavements)
Hearing everyday sounds – traffic, hoovers, fireworks, even delivery vans!
Having positive experiences around other calm, vaccinated dogs
Done well, socialisation helps puppies learn that the world isn’t such a scary place – and that new things can actually be fun! It can prevent fear-based behaviours down the line like barking, reactivity, or nervousness.
Studies have shown that puppies who are socialised early are more confident, curious, and less likely to develop issues like anxiety or aggression as adults (Scott & Fuller, 1965; Appleby et al., 2002).
And remember – it’s not about flooding your pup with too much too soon. It’s about going at their pace, using gentle exposure, and rewarding brave behaviour. Even short, positive experiences can go a long way!
Confidence isn’t something a dog is just “born with” – it’s something we can help grow, step by step.
Our Puppy Socialisation Classes run weekly on Thursday evenings and are open to puppies up to 16 weeks old. Click the link below to find out more!
www.wildshaped.co.uk/puppy-socialisation
References:
Scott, J.P., & Fuller, J.L. (1965). Genetics and the social behavior of the dog. University of Chicago Press: Chicago.
Appleby, D. L., Bradshaw, J. W., & Casey, R. A. (2002). Relationship between aggressive and avoidance behaviour by dogs and their experience in the first six months of life. The Veterinary record, 150(14), 434–438. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.150.14.434
