Socialisation/vaccinations

[Mystiqview]

I think the other problem has been that some vets recommend vaccinations at 6,8,10 and 12 weeks, whereas others have said 6, 10, 12-14 weeks. Our little guy didnt get his first til he was 7 weeks, so that just through another curveball into the equation.

Thanks very much for your response.

The BOLD section is where I think you may be confused. Standard vaccinations are done around 6 weeks. With some breeders opting to do it later around 7-8 week mark. By doing it later, means the booster vaccination normally done four weeks later is also later. Some vets then recommend to do a third booster shot four weeks later again. (Thereby you get vaccinations done at 6, 12 and 16 weeks)

I vaccinate my guys at 6 weeks then again at 12 weeks. I don't do the third booster as both myself and my vet are comfortable with only the two as recommended by the drug company making the vaccine.

Worming however is done every two weeks from the age of two weeks old through until they are 12 weeks old.

As far as what you will learn at puppy school, it greatly depends on who is running the course. Some places like to concentrate on socialisation and basic doggy manners with a little bit on worming, ticks, and the veterinary side of things. Other places do a little more on the veterinary side and less on the training side.

Not knowing what your AWL place is like, and if other people there can recommend them that's fine. But for me sitting here in QLD, I would be hesitant to take a puppy to anywhere associated with a rescue shelter (especially if held on or near their grounds). Bigger chance for things like parvo and Kennel cough. Especially as a few shelters here offering obedience and puppy school have battled with Kennel Cough a number of times this year. At least with a vet, while there is the chance of the same.. I think it is less than someone bringing in a stray that has it. At least also with a vet, you can keep a good relationship going there to know of outbreaks in your area.

I do much of my training of puppies at home. I have quite a few older dogs all puppy friendly. For pups, I teach heeling without a lead. I use heaps of tasty treats like kabana, sausage, and similar things and at every step with my hand by my side, I encourage the puppy to the "heel" position. Once the puppy is used to walking close next to you, it is much easier to pick up the lead. You can do the basics for sit, drop and stand yourself. As well as "wait" at times such as before meal time.

The biggest thing with puppy school is controlled socialisation. Socialising your puppy with like minded (and size).

[raineth]

MissCheevius,

Puppy classes can be excellent. But some of them are not so excellent.

My preference is socialise puppies to well adjusted adult dogs - which I read you are doing

I personally don't think pups do a very good job at teaching other pups manners.

I took my first puppy to puppy school (thinking I was doing the right thing). But it was just a puppy free-for-all. There was a 4 month old boxer and a 6 month old boxer who were also attending and they were so rough with my pup. I think it was about the worst socialisation I could have given him.

So anyway, I just wanted to say that if you turn up to your puppy school and its like that - you are better off going home :D

[Alyra]

My pup has yet to have his 3rd vaccinations, and I was worried about taking him out and about; that being said, last night I bit the bullet and took him to a friend's place for NYE BBQ and he played with their two adult dogs; the experience of that I think far outweighed the minute risk imho