It may sound overwhelming and difficult, but socializing your puppy is really quite easy, and doing it early will help ensure that your puppy matures into a friendly, adult dog that is a joy to be around.

When to start socializing

You can't start socializing soon enough. The benefits of early socialization simply cannot be overemphasized, but the good news is that it's easy and can be fun for both you and your puppy. All you have to do is take him out and about as much as you can and as soon as possible. And with first vaccinations being offered at six weeks, you can take him out of the house earlier than ever before. Try not to do too much too soon. It is best to build up your puppy's new experiences slowly at first.

Your puppy and other people

People come in all different shapes and sizes and your puppy should have the opportunity to encounter them all. Get him used to strangers but be careful that they don't scare or overwhelm him with a strong show of affection.

It's important that your puppy becomes acquainted with children, too. Even if there aren't any children in the house, get him to meet some outside. Take him on walks in the park, where you are sure to encounter children who will be drawn to your cuddly new puppy. Arrange meetings with friends who have well-behaved children for controlled positive interactions.

Don't forget that puppies can become tired quickly; make sure that meeting times with new people are kept quite short so your puppy has time to rest.

Your puppy and other animals

A crucial aspect of socialization is the introduction of your puppy to other dogs as well as other animals. It is very important that your puppy only meets other animals that you know are well socialized, as a nasty experience can have a lifelong effect on a puppy. Also be sure the other dogs are free from any communicable health problems.