Is socialization important for a puppy before eight weeks?
ABSOLUTELY!! Before we started breeding and showing, we were looking for a Weimaraner puppy for a pet. I drove several miles to meet someone that had puppies listed in the paper. The puppies were all outside locked in a pen. They had been born and raised in that pen. They were huddled together…and were very nervous around me and the breeder. The pen stunk and looked like it had never been cleaned! The breeders were not concerned and said with extra love and attention the puppies would be fine. Luckily I followed my instincts and got out of there quick without getting a puppy. Research has shown that early socialization is VERY essential for getting a well adjusted puppy. Puppies need to be held, loved and have very regular interaction with people and sounds in the home right from the start. I have talked to many people that are very well meaning, that end up buying a puppy out of this situation because they feel sorry for the puppy. In the end they often end up with a lot of heartach
