The socialisation period from 3-12 weeks is the most influential phase of a dog's life for long-term welfare. Positive experiences during this window shape behaviour and stress responses for life.
The socialisation period represents both the greatest opportunity and the greatest risk for long-term puppy welfare. Puppies that receive appropriate positive exposure to people, animals, environments and experiences during this window develop resilience and positive associations that persist throughout their lives. Conversely, puppies reared in impoverished, stressful or abusive conditions during this period carry the welfare consequences as lifelong anxiety, fear and difficulty coping with normal life demands. The widespread sale of puppy farm dogs that have experienced the socialisation window in barren, stressful kennel conditions represents a preventable welfare crisis that creates long-term suffering in millions of companion dogs.