Puppy Socialization

These guidelines help minimize risks while socializing our puppies to the wonderful world around them. For more information on how to start socializing your new puppy, check out Early Puppy Socialization People Places and Things! 

• Never leave a puppy unattended in a vehicle or tethered in a public place, even if it is only for a moment to run inside and ask for permission to enter.
• Until one week after puppies have their 16-week vaccines, avoid high dog-traffic areas with animals of unknown health and vaccination status (e.g., pet stores, local parks).
• Reference Puppy Socialization: Ideas to Spark Creativity! for ideas and guidelines for age-appropriate outings for most guide dog puppies
• Choose and adjust activities based on the individual puppy’s comfort level.
• Consider extreme weather safety; avoid socialization or exercise outdoors during extreme weather conditions.
  • Hot pavement can burn a puppy’s paws. On warm days, it is best to walk puppies in the early morning or late evening when the temperature and ground is cooler.
  • If extreme weather activities cannot be avoided, puppies should wear foot protection (e.g., booties). Speak with your support team about paw protection and best practices when introducing booties to a puppy!
  • Surfaces that have been treated with chemicals for de-icing can cause intense irritation to a puppy’s feet.
• Ensure frequent access to fresh clean water, especially on warm days with a lot of activity.
• Be cautious when puppies are being introduced to unfamiliar dogs and other animals. Avoid areas with unfamiliar off-leash dogs (dog parks, hiking trails, beaches, etc.).
  • When visiting friends and family with pets, ensure the puppy has a positive experience by allowing them to meet only appropriate, friendly, and confident pets.
  • When around livestock, poultry, or other small animals, puppies should always be supervised on leash.