When Should I Start Socializing and Training My Puppy?
Short answer? The second they land on your doorstep.
Long answer? Keep reading—because early socialization and training can shape your puppy’s entire future, especially if you live in a fast-paced place like New York City.
Start the Story Early
“Think of puppies entering our homes as relatively blank pages in a book. The sooner we begin to write the chapter the way we want, the less editing we'll need to do of your puppy's version.”
— Colleen Safford, Founder of Far Fetched Acres
In those first few weeks, your puppy is soaking in every sound, every scent, every experience. And in NYC—where scooters buzz by, horns honk, people rush past, and elevators ding constantly—that learning window is precious.
What Science Says About Early Socialization
Puppies go through a critical socialization window from approximately 3 to 14 weeks of age. During this time, their brains are biologically primed to absorb new experiences with curiosity instead of fear.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recommends that:
“The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life... For this reason, the standard of care is to begin socialization before the vaccine series is complete.”
In other words, waiting until your puppy is "fully vaccinated" is outdated advice.
But What About Safety?
It’s a fair question—and here's the reframe:
“Imagine if your pediatrician told you your child couldn’t go outside, meet people, or experience the world until they were fully vaccinated at 5 years old. That would seem absurd, right? We rely on herd immunity and so do our dogs. NYC dogs are amongst the most vaccinated in the world!”
— Colleen Safford
We protect our puppies by making smart choices, not by isolating them.
Avoid high-risk dog parks where interactions may not be safe or ideal
Choose trusted puppy classes, Far Fetched Acres' Puppy Training Camp and curated age appropriate social experiences
Introduce sounds, textures, and gentle handling right away
NYC-Specific Socialization Goals
Living in New York? That critical window means exposing your puppy—gradually and positively—to:
Scooters, bikes, strollers, skateboards
Elevators, crosswalks, traffic
Sidewalk grates, puddles, construction noise
Friendly strangers, kids, dogs, and delivery people
Time alone to prevent separation anxiety
Calm indoor downtime in the city environment
“Puppies learn from every interaction, every single day. Their little brains are like sponges—preventing unwanted behavior while building desirable habits from the start is the key to a lifelong relationship.”
— Colleen Safford
Crate Training, House Training & Manners Start Day One
At Far Fetched Acres, we help puppy parents build a foundation that includes:
Crate training as a tool for comfort, routine, and structure—the crate should be your pup's treasure box and bedroom
House training through management, age appropriate proactive routines and realistic schedules
Early manners like waiting at thresholds, polite greetings, and leash basics
Daily rituals that shape calm, confident behavior
“Let's help you develop your best friend and develop a relationship based of patience, trust and understanding. Start with calm routines and clear boundaries from the beginning.”
— Colleen SaffordThe earlier you start, the less backtracking you'll do. Prevention always beats correction.
Socialization Is Training
The idea that training begins “after obedience class starts” is outdated. Socialization is training. Crate training is training. Waiting calmly on leash is training. Being comfortable in new environments is training.
At Far Fetched Acres, we work with NYC families every day to lay this early foundation—offering puppy boarding, socialization camps, enrichment, and behavior-focused care designed specifically for life in the city.
Ready to Give Your Puppy the Best Start?
We’re here to help. Whether it’s a Puppy Camp, Private lessons in your home, Midweek Escapes, or one-on-one training support—Far Fetched Acres is NYC’s go-to for raising confident, city-ready dogs.
“Don’t wait. Take the puppy out. Expose them early. Be gentle but be brave. You are protecting your dog’s future.”
— Colleen Safford
Explore our puppy services now or reach out to schedule a consult. Your future adult dog will thank you.