Socializing a New Puppy
Exposure Checklist for Socialization
Use this checklist to help keep track of what your puppy has been exposed to. Place a check mark in the box corresponding to the item your puppy was exposed to and at what age.
Age in weeks
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Exposure to: |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
14 |
15 |
16 |
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Babies, toddlers, children |
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Teenagers, adults, elderly people |
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People with wheelchairs, crutches |
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In-line skaters, cyclists, skateboarders |
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Drunk people, people with odd gaits |
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People in uniform, veterinarians |
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Repair people, delivery people |
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People with umbrellas, helmets, masks |
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People with hats, beards, glasses |
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People with parcels, capes, sacks |
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People with strollers, wagons |
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People of various ethnicities |
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Kids at school grounds |
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Crowds, clapping, cheering |
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People yelling, loud speakers |
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People dancing, singing |
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Livestock, waterfowl |
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Other puppies, friendly adult dogs |
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Other pets |
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Traffic, busses, trains, motorcycles |
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Boats, jet skis, snow mobiles |
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Manhole covers, grates |
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Shiny floors, tiles, icy streets |
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Gravel, cement, mud |
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Revolving signs, swinging bridges |
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Walks after dark, in bad weather |
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Hot air balloons & airplanes |
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Lawn mowers |
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Elevators, automatic doors |
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Balconies, stairs |
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Drive-thru’s, car washes, tunnels |
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Electrical appliances, washers |
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Vacuum cleaners, hair dryers |
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Construction and machinery noises |
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Wind, rain, thunder, snow |
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Fireworks, sporting events, fairs |
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Veterinary hospitals and clinics |
Final Remarks
Socialization is essential for helping your puppy develop into a happy, fun and safe companion. Most people find it easier and more enjoyable to live with a dog who’s relaxed with strangers, gets along well with dogs and adapts easily to new experiences. While some dogs are born with genetic predispositions that can make this difficult or impossible, most dogs are very impressionable when young and can learn to take everything in stride. Socializing your puppy gives him the greatest chance possible to develop into a dog who’s comfortable in his environment and a joy to be with.
WebMD Veterinary Reference from ASPCA Virtual Pet Behaviorist
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