Q: Until what age should my puppy attend behavioural and socialisation classes?
A: The simple answer – there’s no age limit! There are multiple studies highlighting the importance of early socialisation. Puppies go through a sensitive period for socialisation that ends at around 12 weeks of age, so a lot of positive experiences need to occur within that time.
Attending a full course of puppy classes with a qualified and knowledgeable positive reinforcement trainer is a great start!
However, continued socialisation and training are important. We don’t just send our kids to playschool and assume that it’s enough for them. Dogs can regress socially if they’re not continually exposed to other dogs, people and environments.
The importance of classes lies in socialisation and habituation to various animals, people, items, environments and handling. A good class will emphasise these aspects over training. Although training is significant, it is far more important to have a dog who can cope with the multitude of experiences that he may have during his lifetime.
My advice to all prospective puppy parents would be to research reputable classes that only use positive reinforcement, learn about how to provide their pup with positive socialisation experiences, and continue with socialisation and training throughout their dog’s life.
A good class provides a safe environment in which a dog can learn more easily and safely – contact the Animal Behaviour Consultants of SA about reputable classes.
Katherine Brown, behaviourist
