Why I Don’t “Socialise” My Pups — The Way Most People Do

My young dogs learn first and foremost that I have their back — always.
That I will protect them, advocate for them, and never throw them into situations they’re not ready for — just to tick a socialisation box. That responsibility sits with me, and it’s one I take seriously. Socialisation isn’t exposure at all costs, it’s safe, structured, and trust-building.

🚫 Dog Parks Are Not Socialisation
Let’s call it for what it is.
Dog parks are unpredictable.
 Random dogs.
 Random owners.
 Zero control over what your puppy might encounter.
You wouldn’t throw your toddler into a crowded bar and say, “Go learn how to socialise.” But that’s exactly what people do with their puppies.
One bad experience can leave a permanent imprint. Fear, reactivity, even aggression — it can all stem from a moment you thought was “socialisation.”

🧬 Genetics Matter — A Lot
Not every dog is wired to be a social butterfly.
 Livestock guardian breeds, working dogs, and many primal breeds are often aloof, protective, and naturally suspicious of strangers or other dogs. That’s not “bad behaviour.” That’s genetic instinct.
Expecting all dogs to be playful and social with every dog or person they meet is a setup for failure — and frustration.
If you choose a breed like this, do your research and work with their instincts, not against them. Train and socialise within the framework of the dog in front of you — not the one you wish you had.

🧠 Don’t Overload Your Puppy
Puppies are babies.
 They have short attention spans, growing bodies, and developing minds.
Your role isn’t to overwhelm them with rules or force obedience.
 It’s to become their safe place. Their source of fun. The person they trust the most.
Through play, exploration, and positive interaction, you build the bond that all future training is based on.
First connection. Then control.

🎓 The Puppy School Illusion
How many of us went to puppy school, got the certificate...
 …and still ended up with a dog that pulls, reacts, or doesn’t listen?
It’s not that puppy school is useless — it’s the false sense of completion it gives people. Dogs don’t graduate at 12 weeks. Learning happens every day, in real life, with real distractions.
If you go to puppy school, use it as a starting point, not a finish line.

✅ So What Is Good Socialisation?
Here’s what proper socialisation actually looks like:
Safe exposure at your dog’s pace (not forced meet-and-greets)

• Controlled environments — not chaotic off-lead zones
• Confidence-building around different sights, sounds, and surfaces
• Neutral dog-to-dog observation — calm parallel walks > rough play
• Advocating for your pup if someone’s dog is too much

You want your pup to learn that the world is safe, you’re in charge, and that they can trust your leadership.

🐾 Final Thought:
Let your pup be a pup.
 Let them explore, build confidence, and grow into themselves.
 Protect their experiences, guide their learning, and earn their trust.
Socialisation done right isn’t about chaos —
 It’s about calm, clarity, and connection.