Socialization is sooo important!

Since I did not have an immediate guardian home for Brinkley, I took her to the local shelter that has a brand new gorgeous puppy 'social' building.  They always divide the classes in two - one side for the very outgoing, 'heavy duty' playful pups and the other side for the more reserved, shy ones. 

The first class I took Brinkley to there were only two pups - both Labs and quite playful.  The trainer put Brinkley into the other side alone with another trainer.  Brinkley was very good about going through tunnels, jumping on small tables as encouraged and checking out numerous toys.  We did some sit commands and 'Go Find It' lessons.  About halfway through, all three pups went outdoors to an outside pen.  The trainer cautioned me to be sure the other two Lab pups did not overwhelm Brinkley - if they did, I was to pick her up.  Initially, she was very submissive and would run behind me.  As we progressed, the choc. Lab introduced herself nicely and there was some play bowing going on.  The black Lab was way too rambunctious.

Unfortunately, we could not make the second class due to a wedding but we were there today and Brinkley had another calm Lab puppy to make friends with while indoors.  Outside, however, Brinkley was ready to 'meet and greet' with most of the pups with several being 'wild ones'!  She actually stood her ground with one 'in her face' but they shook off the confrontation and were fine.

I posted this because each week your puppy is growing like crazy and needs to be exposed to many more events in the world to absorb, adjust and utilize the lessons to progress to a confident canine.  I know Brinkley's new guardians will continue these lessons with training and lots of socialization.  I hope all of you are working hard at both training and socializing.  At this time of year, it is not hard - so many garden centers filled with people and mums; foliage tours, and crispy apple picking soon!  Enjoy!