Here are a few things we do here at ShorkieWorld to help our babies become more socialized.

1. Starting the first week of the puppy's life, hold each individual pup a min. of 6 times a day for at least 5-10mins. While holding them we talk to them, give them kiss, hug them. As the baby grow we place each one, in a variety of surfaces such as a carpet, blanket, towel, etc.

2. Starting the second week each pup leave it's dam for short periods of time and be exposed to a variety of sounds and smells! We take them to various rooms in the house. At other times family members will carry or just hold them while watching TV or working on the computer, etc. (Each pup needs to feel secure while listening to a human heart beating. The imprinting is critical toward a proper future bonding with his new family! It is also important for the puppy to hear a variety of human voices! )

3. Starting the third week the puppy needs to be presented with small challenges that will help him to develop self esteem--confidence! Placing the puppy on the floors or table or just a few steps away from mom for the first time and asking him to maneuver several feet for a treat works great!

4. Starting the fourth week each puppy is introduced to our other family members, such as niece's, nephews and they get to start spending time with them. Our Puppies also experience many new surfaces and temperatures, such as walking inside of a DRY bathtub, up a small step, etc.  They should also exposed to distant loud noises, like a vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, hair dryer, etc.

5. During the fifth week each pup should spend individual time with a variety of  family members and many new environments.

Since the puppies have not attained full immunity yet, it is imperative that they are not exposed to places that are frequented by adult (especially stray) dogs! Doggie parks should be big No No's!

6. During the sixth week each pup should be exposed to more challenges! Encouraging him to play with a balloon (that will pop) is an excellent way to help him build confidence, by encouraging the puppy to overcome such obstacles! Motorized toys can also provide outstanding stimulus. The more challenging situations you can provide for each puppy the more confident he will become.

7. Starting the seventh week is the most critical! Each puppy needs to experience visitation by friends from the family, and vet visits on a regular basis!  Your puppy needs to receive proper imprinting NOW--in a safe controlled environment before you release him to his new family!

A puppy should NEVER be put outside on the ground until they have had all their shots, which is about 12 weeks old most the time.

Why it's important