Puppy Socialisation Classes

[pwhite48]

Hi everyone

Can anyone suggest how I can source a good socialisation class for Honey.

I found a great one through the Kennel Club and APDT, but the next puppy course doesn't start until Honey's 16 weeks, and I would like to get her on one as soon as she's had her 12 week jab.

I've tried the vet, who gave me a couple of numbers - having phoned both of them, they sounded, urm 'dodgy' so say the least :oops:

Is there any kind of database of dog training clubs, in addition to KC and APDT?  

If all else fails, do you think 16 weeks is too late for her to start?

Thanks guys

Phil                    

[*Jay*]

Do you have any ringcraft classes that you can take her too? The one that I use focus more on the socialisation aspect when they are really young pups. That way she can get interaction with people and other dogs before her training classes start. Failing that, all you can really do would be to take her out and about a lot meeting people and dogs in the street/park etc. I would always check with the owners first before letting Honey meet them as you don't want her to have a bad experience so young. If you don't like the sound of the classes you phoned - trust your instinct. What you can do though, is go along without Honey and watch how they train the dogs and the way in which they run the class. That way you can see for yourself if they are the right class for you.  If you can't get her into a class before she is 16 weeks, then just practise the basics yourself at home to prepare her. Just keep the sessions short and sweet to keep her interest. I don't think dallas started his classes till he was about that age as we were waiting for his rather dolly dimple big brother to graduate puppy class so he could get in  But it certainly hasn't done him any harm :wink:                    

[PennyB]

I agree with Gill, if you want socializing then may be do some of it yourself. Its amazing how many people want to say hello to a cute pup. Make yourself a check-list and run through as many things as you can think of that your pup may meet further on in their lives—not just dogs, but kids, people in wheelchairs, men with beards, people with umbrellas, buses, trains, busy shopping streets, people with hats, etc. Also the vets is another place to socialize your pup to (I used to take mine to be weighed regularly and also to buy dog/cat food)—Wilf loves the place, so much so I didn't worry too much about having to leave him at a strange vet hospital 200 miles away for a week last year (he was a star and made the most of the attention there).

I purposely go up to people with young dogs and begin talking to them and did socializing that way—at least with a dog you have an excuse to (or am I the only mad woman around who goes up to complete strangers and asks them if my pup can play with theirs).                    

[shonajoy]

Hi Phil, I've had problems too finding one, Indie goes to an ADPT one every Thursday, and there are far too many people and dogs there so far, but it has been great for socialisation.

Pennyb made a great point - when you can take them out, it takes you so long to get anywhere as people want to admire them - Indie must meet about 10-15 dogs a day at the park. Also get your friends to help, and invite as many people as you can to come and see her.

Good luck

Shona                    

[pwhite48]

Thanks for your suggestions - we'll certainly follow your advice.

My wife will take her up to school aswell - she'll get loads of attention there

Phil