Socialisation is the process by which a puppy learns to accept other dogs, adults and children and not become fearful of them. The gradual introduction of new animals and of people of all ages coupled with pleasurable experiences means the pup will form positive associations and will become a friendly, sociable and confident individual.

Habituation is a similar process by which the pup experiences the sights and sounds of everyday life during its formative weeks and comes to accept them as normal and not something to be afraid of.

The socialisation classes are an informal meeting held at our Clevedon practice on Alexandra Road on Wednesday evenings from 6.00 - 6.45pm. The majority of this time is devoted to play and socialisation between the puppies. The last fifteen minutes of the session is set aside for handling demonstrations, interactive games or basic training. This time is also an opportunity for owners to ask any questions regarding their puppy’s development.

Puppies are allowed to join the classes from 9 weeks of age after they have had their 1st vaccination and been treated for fleas. If your pup is very small eg a Jack Russell we advise you wait another week or two until they are a little bigger. They can continue to come to the puppy class until they are 15 weeks old. Beyond this they are usually too boisterous for the younger pups; more timid individuals are however welcome to attend for a few extra weeks to build confidence.

It is important not to bring your puppy if s/he is at all unwell. Please do not feed your pup before the class and please toilet your puppy before the class to keep accidents to a minimum!!

Puppies are often timid for the first few weeks, but with a little encouragement you will find they soon overcome their worries and will rough and tumble with the rest of the group.

We hope that owner and puppy will get a lot of fun and confidence from the classes and that in the future a trip to the vet will be nothing but an enjoyable experience. There is a nominal charge for a 5 week course of puppy parties, but we are sure you will agree they are well worth it for the great start they will give your pup.

Click here for basic puppy training advice