Puppy socialisation week by week: before and after handover

Our initial socialisation programme begins at around four weeks and is supervised by our ethology team. These stages describe its structure, not milestones every puppy must reach on the same day.

Socialisation means helping a puppy become comfortable with everyday experiences, rather than exposing it to as many things as possible. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior provides guidance on socialisation and reward-based training.

The first weeks

Care centres on the mother, the litter and the puppies’ veterinary needs. Handling is adapted to their age and response. A calendar cannot replace observation of the individual puppy.

From week four: gentle introductions

We begin introducing different sounds, smells, surfaces and handling. Experiences are kept manageable and adjusted when a puppy seems worried or tired. Outdoor access depends on conditions and veterinary advice; it is not an all-weather requirement.

There is no need to push a puppy towards something it is trying to avoid. Give it space and make the next introduction easier.

Weeks five and six: everyday situations

The programme gradually includes car travel, people, grooming-related handling and household situations. These are introductions, not a promise that a puppy will tolerate every journey or visitor later.

Before arranging contact with unfamiliar dogs or visiting public areas, discuss local infection risks and vaccination status with your vet. Socialisation and disease prevention need to be planned together.

Around week seven: individual assessment

Our ethologist assesses each puppy’s responses and temperament. We consider this alongside the family’s routine, preferences and circumstances when suggesting possible matches.

It is one observation in a developing animal’s life. It cannot predict adult behaviour or suitability for a working role with certainty.

From around week eight: gradual independence

We introduce brief periods of independent rest and separation from the mother and littermates. Duration follows the puppy’s response, not a fixed timetable.

Distress is a reason to review the approach, not to wait for the puppy to give up. A vet or suitably qualified behaviour professional can help with persistent settling or separation difficulties.

Before handover

Our minimum handover age is three months. International travel may require a later date because of vaccination validity and commercial import requirements. See international delivery.

We continue the programme while the puppy is with us. We do not promise that it will sleep alone through the night or be comfortable with a particular length of absence.

Continuing at home

Start with a manageable routine, a safe resting area and brief, positive introductions to your surroundings. Let the puppy’s response guide the pace. Do not begin with hours alone simply because it has practised some independence before handover.

Tell us about difficulties so we can explain its previous routine. Your vet can assess health concerns and help you find behavioural support.

During the wait, we send photographs, videos and updates periodically. A video call may be possible when appropriate. The puppy page explains selection, reservation and handover.