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Tag: puppy socialization

Will My Puppy Grow Out Of This? Early Intervention For Behavior Issues

Will My Puppy Grow Out Of This? Early Intervention For Behavior Issues

As a veterinarian in general practice, seeing a brand new puppy for a wellness check-up is one of my favorite parts of the job. (I’d wager this is true for most vets – ask anyone!) Puppies are cute, and obnoxious, and very, very busy.  They sniff all around the exam room, jump up to say hello, and try their best to eat my shoelaces.  They chew on my stethoscope while I auscult their hearts.  They eat treats eagerly when offered,…

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The Dark Side of Socialization: Fear Periods and Single Event Learning

The Dark Side of Socialization: Fear Periods and Single Event Learning

Years ago, when I was a senior veterinary student working as an extern with OSU’s clinical behavior service, I saw a case that stuck hard in my memory and has never faded. The patient was a beautiful three-year-old female German shepherd I’ll call Heidi.  She was a lovely dog in most respects – friendly and gentle with people, very bright, and a quick learner.  In the consultation room, she was calm and well-mannered, approaching us readily with a wagging tail…

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Puppy Kindergarten Vs. Obedience Class: What’s The Difference?

Puppy Kindergarten Vs. Obedience Class: What’s The Difference?

Today’s topic is one of the most common questions we get from new puppy owners at our training facility – what’s the point of puppy kindergarten?  Can’t we just go ahead and put Buddy in obedience class, so he can start learning the important stuff? I get it.  I really do.  Especially if Buddy is a large-breed dog, like a Labrador or a Great Dane, who will be capable of knocking over full-grown adults in a few short months without…

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Socializing Your Puppy: Why “Later” Is Too Late

Socializing Your Puppy: Why “Later” Is Too Late

It’s a common scenario. You’ve just brought home your new puppy.  Eight weeks old, all roly-poly fluff and cute as a button. You’ve heard that puppies need to be “socialized,” and you definitely plan to work on that when you get a chance.  Maybe sign up for a class with your local trainer, or start taking her for walks around the neighborhood.  But not just yet. You’ll start when the weather gets warmer.  When your work schedule eases up a…

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