Socialising a puppy is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean exposing them to as many dogs, people, and situations as possible, or allowing long periods of rough play. Good socialisation is about quality over quantity. Short, positive experiences help puppies learn that the world is safe without becoming overwhelmed. Meeting calm, well-mannered adult dogs can be especially valuable, as they often model appropriate behaviour and help puppies learn polite social skills. It’s also important to remember that puppies don’t need to greet or be stroked by every person they see. Allowing them to observe the world at a comfortable distance and move at their own pace helps build confidence and creates positive associations with new experiences.
