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Originally Posted by bjh  I am finding that one of the biggest challenges in raising yorkies is the socialization aspect. It can be very challenging when keeping puppies until they are 12 weeks or older. I have seen several breeder/exhibitor post about how well socialized they dogs are so I am seeking advise from those that have experience.
I hear so much conflicting advice on how to raise a puppy that is properly socialized. All the pups I have sold in the past the people were very happy with them and the pups adjusted very well but I am wondering if there are things I should be doing different when trying to raise a pup for the show ring.
So here are a few questions I have:
Say you have a litter of 4 or 5 pups, how long do you leave the pups together as a group. At what age do you separate them or do you leave them all together.
[I think raising a pup is like raising a child, sometimes what works for one might not work for another so I am guessing the pups personality has a lot to do with how they turn out. Any input would be greatly appreciated. |
COLOR="Red"]I've never seperated my pups. Clients always tell me how well socialized they are.[/COLOR]
At what age do you let them 'run' with the older dogs?
Never let them run with the older dogs, especially males as males. I don't want their confidence hindered. I bring them out into the living area in a confined area at 8 weeks of age. Let them get use to the activity, then about 9 weeks of age I will put another female in with them and monitor closely.
Do you let mom have all the time she wants with them? What if mom really does not like playing with them that much or she gets too rough, what then?
I let my moms stay with them for as long as they want. At times she may get rough with puppies (monitor the activity) but, as long as it's disiplining I leave it alone.....she's teaching them their place in the pack.
What do you do if you have one pup that is say 4 months old and that pup is being to dominate over the others or what if you have a pup that is being 'picked' on and acts shy?
You will always have a pup that is more dominate. I usually do temperament tests.
At what age do you start vaccinations and what age do you take them outside or on car rides?
Follow Dr Dodd's vaccination protocol. Their first car trip is to the vet. I do not take them out otherwise.
At what age do you start the actual lead training?
At 16 weeks and then it's playing