The 16-week puppy socialisation window (and why missing it is hard to fix)
Between 8 and 16 weeks of age, a puppy's brain is wiring its model of "what is safe in this world." Experiences during this window shape lifelong reactions. Miss the window and you're managing fear for the next 12 years.
What to expose them to
- Surfaces: grass, tile, carpet, metal, sand, water.
- Sounds: vacuum, hair dryer, doorbell, fireworks (recorded, gradual volume).
- People: beards, hats, glasses, wheelchairs, children moving fast.
- Dogs: calm adult dogs known to be friendly — not dog parks, where bad encounters can scar.
- Handling: paws touched, mouth opened, ears checked, towel-dried.
What to avoid
Big chaotic environments before vaccinations are complete (parvo risk). Letting strange dogs greet at full energy. Punishing fear responses.
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