Good Dog University presents Savvy Socialization

What is socialization?

Socialization is a process by which animals learn and adopt behavior patterns appropriate for the social environment in which they live. For dogs, this includes people and dogs, as well as other animals they may live or work with, such as cats and livestock. 

Why is socialization important?

Socialization is essential for puppies to develop the skills necessary to coexist and interact, appropriately and safely, with other individuals in order to be good companions and to do the work they are bred for. The early social and physical environment is extremely important as it affects the dog's response and ability to cope with new environments and experiences throughout their life, the bond they form with humans, and therefore their long-term welfare. Inadequate socialization has been shown to increase the risk of fear, anxiety, and behavior problems. These issues are directly linked to abandonment and relinquishment. Good Dog is committed to supporting breeders and puppy buyers to ensure our dogs get appropriate socialization to set them up for success in their new, forever homes.

How can you socialize your puppies?

The Good Breeders in our community invest a lot of time, energy, and effort into socializing their pups from the moment they are born until the moment they reach their new homes. However, all of the benefit from this socialization work is lost if the puppy buyers do not continue working with their new pups as part of their socialization journey – which is a lifelong journey, with the most critical time period for most dogs being up to age 2. While it does entail some work on your part, the benefits of socialization for you, your dog, and your family can’t be overstated and will contribute to an even more rewarding and happy relationship with your new canine family member. And, you can get started easily by taking our Savvy Socialization course for new puppy owners! 

Good Dog University and Avidog present Savvy Socialization for Owners

Dr. Watkins, the host of Savvy Socialization - New Thinking on Making Great Puppies into Great Dogs, is the founder of Avidog University and a Good Dog Partner. Dr. Watkins has worked with dog breeders around the world to produce mentally and physically healthy dogs that bring joy to their owners and benefit society. She has bred golden retrievers for over 40 years, is an AKC Gold Breeder of Merit, and is one of the few dog breeders to have thrice been selected by the American Kennel Club as “Breeder of the Year.” 

Savvy Socialization - New Thinking on Making Great Puppies into Great Dogs is presented by Dr. Gayle Watkins. This course covers current science and approaches to socialization practices to produce behaviorally and emotionally sound dogs. Socialization is critical to making sure your new pup has a happy, well-balanced, and healthy life. Socialization helps your pups develop confidence so they can easily transition into new situations and experiences! 

The course has three sections: 

• Part 1 will introduce you to socialization and why it is so important to puppy development
• Parts 2 and 3 focus on the breeders’ role from pre-conception through 8 weeks of age
• Parts 4-7 focus on the puppy buyers’ role in continuing the socialization process through puppies’ first year of life

Below you will find the entire course (Parts 1-7) for your reference, but Parts 1 and Parts 4-7 are the most important areas for you as a puppy buyer!