Every puppy is a unique combination of its genetics, physical and temperamental factors, and its social and behavioral development. All puppies require early enriched socialization with people and other animals to become confident social adults. Much research has been done on the critical socialization periods of a puppy's development. In debate is how to protect the puppy from illness while meeting its needs for rich social experiences. Although puppies are at risk for picking up illnesses out in the real world, those who stay cloistered until they are done with all of their shots can also be at a greater risk of becoming dogs who have difficulties coping with life. The importance of puppy socialization can not be underestimated and a good breeder must balance the challenges of creating an enriching environment and stimulating experiences while being protective of a young puppy's physical and safety needs.
There is significant research on the importance of social and environmental stimulation in human children, and the potential impacts of deprivation. Similar parallels can be made with puppies. Optimum puppy socialization starts even before the eyes are open, the first and most critical period is generally from 3 to 12 weeks of age. The socialization of puppies comes from two sources, canine and human. The first acts of socialization come from the interaction between mother and puppies and between littermates. A good dame teaches her puppies what is acceptable behavior. How puppies react within their litter is important to how they develop later in life. Once the dame's work is well underway, it is the breeder's turn to assist in the process. Exposure to as many different noises, sights, smells and experiences is vital to a stable, well-tempered puppy. Learning during this socialization period is permanent. The puppy carries those first impressions throughout life. It is so important these socialization experiences be positive. Specifics learned during this period include learning how to play. The mother dog teaches the basics and the puppy tries its new skills with its littermates. Then the breeder introduces toys, reinforcing the fun and reward in playing by the rules. Other important socialization skills to be learned include housebreaking (being a neat dog), spending time in a dog crate (having some quiet time), walking on a leash and coming when called (knowing who is boss), and fitting in with the pack (learning respect for family members). Our commitment to breeding Havanese of outstanding quality and temperament extends well beyond selecting the breeding pairs and caring for the dame during gestation. Havadoros puppies are exposed to early neurological stimulation which has been shown to improve neurological and brain development. . Once the puppies are three to four weeks old, environmental enrichment includes new sights, sounds, smells and experiences which are changed regularly to ensure that puppies are challenged and learning. While providing early socialization is more likely to produce a puppy of good temperament, there are no guarantees. At Havadoros we believe that all puppies should have every opportunity for success.