Sensory Checklist for Puppies
Introducing your puppy to a variety of sensory experiences early in their life is setting them up for a lifetime of peace and confidence. Here’s a detailed checklist to ensure your puppy encounters a wide range of stimuli before they turn one year old. Don’t forget to reward your pup after each exposure to ensure they form positive associations.
1) Household and Outdoor Noises
Gradually introduce sounds like vacuum cleaners, washing machines, doorbells, and kitchen appliances. Acquaint them with traffic noises, fireworks, children playing, babies crying, sirens, and other common urban sounds. No need to seek these noises out; it can be as simple as searching Spotify for playlists of different soundscapes.
Here are a few we recommend:
2. Surfaces
It can be scary for puppies to feel different surfaces on their paws. It’s fairly common for adult dogs to fear or refuse to walk across particular surfaces like grates, bridges, walkways, and steps. The more surfaces you introduce them to, the better. Walk on grass, gravel, wood, carpet, and tiles to get them comfortable with different textures and the noise our footsteps make.
3. Touching
Regularly handle their paws, ears, and tail to prepare them for grooming and vet visits. Place them on your washing machine or dryer (when it is not in use) as this is a perfect surface to mimic the cold metal tables used at the vet/groomer.
4. People in Uniform
Introduce your puppy to a diverse range of people, including children, adults of all ages, and people wearing various accessories like uniforms, hats, and glasses/sunglasses. It seems silly, but it is fairly common for dogs to have aversions to hats, glasses, or flouro uniforms. Make sure to introduce them to your local postie, as they are commonly feared.
5. Motion
Here’s a perfect excuse to take your puppy out for a trip in the car. Take your puppy in a car, bus, or train to accustom them to sitting while their environment is in motion. Don’t forget to introduce them to elevators and different types of stairs, as this is another common area of fear for adult dogs.
By methodically introducing your puppy to this extensive range of experiences, you will help build their confidence, reduce future anxiety, and foster their curiosity and learning. Regular exposure under careful supervision ensures these experiences are positive, setting the foundation for a well-rounded dog. Enjoy this exciting journey of exploration with your puppy—it's a prime time for both bonding.
For any other pet care tips or services, remember, your friendly neighborhood Pet Au Pair dog walkers are always here to help.
