Puppy classes before the vaccine series is done: what AVSAB says
Many new owners hear “keep your puppy home until all the shots are done.” The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior takes a different position, with conditions.
The position
AVSAB says the primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life, and that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive socialization before they are fully vaccinated. It says behavior problems, not infectious disease, are the number one cause of death for dogs under three years of age, and that behavior problems are the number one cause of relinquishment to shelters.
The conditions for classes
AVSAB says puppies can generally start socialization classes as early as 7 to 8 weeks of age. They should have had a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days before the first class, and a first deworming. They should stay up to date on vaccines throughout the class.
What to ask your vet
- Which vaccines your puppy has had, and when the next ones are due.
- Local disease risk where you live.
- Which classes and places they are comfortable with right now.
- What to avoid until the series is complete.
Keep it positive
AVSAB describes the goal as exposing a puppy to many new people, animals and places safely, without over-stimulation that shows up as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance. Short and calm beats long and busy.
