Tauranga SPCA manager Andrea Crompton with puppy Moon. Photo / Brydie Thompson
A lack of early socialisation is putting puppies at risk of developing behavioural problems later in life, according to Tauranga SPCA manager Andrea Crompton.
She said the first few months of a puppy’s life were crucial for learning about the world, and without exposure to a variety of people, animals and environments, dogs may grow up fearful or aggressive.
Pāpāmoa dog trainer Misha Gildenberger, co-founder of the SocialDog app, said in her 15 years of experience, five out of every 10 dogs she encounters struggle with social issues.
Gildenberger, the owner of Roma Dog Behaviour Academy in Tauranga, said early socialisation reduces the risk of problem behaviours as it teaches puppies how to communicate and play politely with other dogs.
She launched SocialDog more than two years ago with the mission to help dog owners raise socially healthy dogs and find good playmates for their pups.
“Our platform is about connection, which is much needed in the community, and people are constantly seeking friends for their dogs.”
She said the platform is also about education and helping owners to understand their dogs better, follow best practices when socialising and finding the correct match for their dogs.
SocialDog used an algorithm to pair dogs that focused on factors such as energy levels, age, size, temperament and personality based on information submitted by owners.
“When browsing other dogs, you’ll be able to see their profiles and traits, making it easier to determine if a potential playmate is a good fit.”
Dogs could join from 8 weeks old, even if not yet fully vaccinated.
“There’s a critical developmental window between 3 and 14 weeks where they learn what’s safe and good.”
Crompton said the challenge was this sensitive socialisation period takes place before puppies have completed their initial course of core vaccinations.
“This means owners need to balance early socialisation with protection against infectious diseases such as parvovirus.
“Early socialisation balanced with disease prevention gives puppies the best start in life, protecting both their physical health and long-term welfare.”
Gildenberger said parvovirus and other diseases unvaccinated puppies could catch were no joke, so it was important to be careful with their exposure.
It was a misconception that puppies had to wait until they were fully vaccinated before they could start exploring and socialising.
“The key is to balance safety with positive experiences.”
Gildenberger recommended hosting playdates with healthy, fully vaccinated dogs at home or a trusted friend’s home.
You could also visit family and friends’ backyards to help your puppy experience new environments safely.
“Taking your puppy on car rides or carrying them in public places is another excellent way to expose them to new sights, sounds and smells without the risk of contact with unknown dogs.”
It was important to avoid high-risk areas where unvaccinated or sick dogs may have been, such as dog parks, busy sidewalks and beaches until the puppy was fully vaccinated.
Gildenberger said positive, controlled exposure during this time helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted dogs, while a lack of socialisation can lead to fear, reactivity, or aggression later in life.
Crompton said when it came to socialisation, the aim was for every experience to be positive.
She advised keeping sessions short, enjoyable and rewarding by using treats.
“If your puppy shows signs of fear or stress, pause and try again another day.”
Puppies can also be taken to puppy preschool classes, which provide a sanitised environment where interactions are controlled.
These classes are often run by veterinary clinics or qualified trainers.
It was important to introduce the puppy to a range of people, including children, adults and people with hats, sunglasses or uniforms.
Crompton said it was also helpful to introduce gentle handling of their paws, ears and mouth so they became comfortable with this – making vet visits, grooming and tooth brushing easier in the future.
“Gradually expose your puppy to common household noises and harmless novel items like umbrellas, bicycles, or pushchairs.”
You should also introduce different surfaces such as carpet, tiles, grass and gravel and gently practise stairs or small obstacles to build confidence.
To practise brief separation, give the puppy something to keep them occupied so they learn that being alone is safe.
Ayla Yeoman is a journalist based in Tauranga. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Communications and Politics & International Relations from the University of Auckland, and has been a journalist since 2022.