The best way to socialize a puppy with other dogs is with older dogs that are well-trained and well-socialized themselves. Although puppy parties can be fun and be a nice place to meet other dog owners, it also so easy for puppy parties to turn into a fray where timid and submissive puppies are bothered by other pups if they aren't closely monitored. Honestly, I don't see how a puppy can learn much about manners from other puppies who don't have any manners themselves.
I never took my Cocker pup to puppy socialization classes and we never allowed her to meet and greet with any other dogs besides our own and our friends' dogs. She's very well-socialized, because although she didn't meet many dogs when she was young, she met well-mannered dogs that encouraged her to be confident and taught her how to be polite.
I wouldn't allow a young pup to approach or be approached by any strange dog whose temperament and past history I am not aware of. It only takes a few bad experiences for a puppy to lose confidence and start reacting badly to other dogs.
I agree with Praia on this.....with your puppy being so young & learning about the big wide world out there it is imperative that he/she has lots of positive experience's with adult dogs.
Years ago i made a mistake with Nina when she was a puppy & allowed 3 huge lab's to pin her down (whilst the owner's came around the corner having a good laugh about it
). At the time i never realised how much it would affect her as she matured.
Its possible if you have a very confident puppy then no, they wouldn't be affected by a telling off but on the otherhand if they are nervous/hesitant etc it may well affect their future encounter's with other dog's.
Nowadays, if i ever think that any of mine are in danger from an attack i would rather pick them up than have them harmed.
I know some people wouldn't agree but we all do what we think is best for our dog's.
