Puppies need a plethora of new and positive experiences as well as a reliable framework to be comfortable in our city and live harmoniously with human expectations. Outdoor Education SF is designed to position your puppy to maximize their potential in both arenas. We provide timely socialization and training that takes place where life does - in dog friendly San Francisco parks and neighborhoods.
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16+ Weeks
Most puppies are fully vaccinated around 16 weeks, and can now enjoy the view from four-on-the-floor...when they aren't jumping, that is! (Don't worry, we train for that.) At this stage, ongoing socialization remains an important part of puppy's day to day life, but is no longer a race against time. Now, teething is beginning and with higher energy levels and confidence, puppy needs a greater focus on the "DO" behaviors - chewing toys instead of furniture and feet, walking nicely on leash, coming when called, and sitting to say hello to people, for example. Also at this time, you may find that puppy's curiosity about the world around them competes with their attention on you. They'll need training to ignore distractions like sticks and garbage on the ground, other dogs, birds, blowing leaves, and all other manner of interesting things! Our field trips are designed to build great behavior early, ensuring a more harmonious relationship between you and your pup, all the while continuing valuable socialization and providing a great break in the day for puppy while you're away. |
8 - 16 Weeks
Puppies in this age range are in the critical window of socialization yet are not fully vaccinated and won't have a 'green light' from your veterinarian to be in all places - at least not with paws on the ground. The juxtaposition of these two circumstances can be challenging for parents who want their puppy to be relaxed and confident as adult canines but can't be carrying puppy all over the city! Thankfully, prioritizing physical health doesn't have to come at the expense of long term behavioral health. Our stroller sessions keep puppy safe while they receive appropriate and repeated exposure to the varied sights and sounds throughout our city. We'll also spend time working valuable foundational skills (sit, down, accepting nail trims, walking on leash, coming when called, waiting at doors, etc.), in 'safe zones' around your home. |