Gentle Start Puppy Program $900
Socializing your puppy is one of the best things you can do to minimize the risk of reactivity, fear, anxiety, and aggression in your dog as an adult.
While the importance of socialization can’t be overstated that doesn’t make it straightforward, especially when you’re juggling house training, crate training, nipping, and other puppy mischief.
Our Gentle Start Puppy Program consists of 1 virtual consultation and 6 private lessons, which are conducted in your home or on guided field trips out in the real world. We will primarily focus on socialization (positive exposure to a variety of people, animals, and environments) to give your puppy the best opportunity to thrive, but we’ll also troubleshoot issues with potty training, crate and separation anxiety, and basic manners.
You’ll graduate this program with a deep bond between you and your new best friend, key tools to navigate the world together, and a foundation for future obedience skills.
Age Requirements
While it’s ideal to start socializing your puppy as soon as they get home (usually at 8 weeks), this program is open to puppies as old as 20 weeks (5 months).
Health & Safety
We’ll teach you how to protect your puppy’s budding immune system and conduct safe socialization outings as early as 7 days after their first round of vaccinations.
Vaccinations
You are required to stay up to date and provide proof of vaccination for Distemper/Parvo. We recommend discussing the Bordatella vaccine with your vet.
Phase 1
We’ll start at home teaching your puppy about their potty routine and crate. Then we’ll introduce vacuum cleaners, hair dryers, holiday decorations and more.
Phase 2
Together, we’ll prepare your puppy for car rides and adventures to places like the vet and groomers. We’ll strategize for strange people, dogs, and noises.
Phase 3
The world is your puppy’s oyster! We’ll hit the streets and visit shops with the goal of showing your puppy how fun and fantastic life can be!
Socialization is critical for all puppies.
However, it is especially important for puppies who:
Display signs of extreme shyness from an early age
Have parents or grandparents who exhibited fearful or aggressive behavior
Endured stressful situations or environments in utero
Experienced malnutrition or illness in their first weeks of life
Were acquired from a puppy mill, pet store, or backyard breeder
Were feral or lived exclusively outdoors before adoption