I am a positive reinforcement puppy mentor and trainer who specializes in ALL things puppies. I believe offering new puppy parents individualized mentorship and support in addition to providing puppies with early puppy socialization, foundation training as well as offering problem solving skills for normal (yet undesirable) puppy behaviors provides a great foundation for puppies. I am happy to offer both virtual and in person sessions.

Why is socialization so important? The first 16 weeks are critical for socialization and learning. Much of what people think of as problem behaviors in adult dogs often comes down to not providing proper early socialization. The best time to provide this is during a puppies socialization period, typically under 16 weeks old. What your puppy learns during this important developmental stage will likely shape his behavior for the rest of his life. Proper early socialization creates the foundation for having a confident, friendly, well-adjusted companion. If you have concerns about taking your puppy to puppy classes before his vaccinations are complete I highly recommend you read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s Position Statement on Puppy Socialization. Read the full statement here. If you still have concerns I happily offer virtual sessions.

“In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first deworming. They should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.”

“Early and adequate socialization and programs of positive training can go a long way to preventing behavior problems and improving bonding between humans and dogs.”

AVSAB Position Statement On Puppy Socialization

Positive Training… Rewarding Results

“Based on current scientific evidence, AVSAB recommends that only reward-based training methods are used for all dog training, including the treatment of behavior problems. Aversive training methods have a damaging effect on both animal welfare and the human-animal bond. There is no evidence that aversive methods are more effective than reward-based methods in any context. AVSAB therefore advises that aversive methods should not be used in animal training or for the treatment of behavior disorders.”

AVSAB Position Statement On Humane Dog Training. You can read their full statement here.

Puppy Socialization and Positive Training. Puppy Preschool. Puppy Playdates. Private Puppy Classes. Puppy Socialization and Positive Training.

(c) 2020-present all images, graphics, and text belong to Malissa Speaker (Sit n Stay Pawstive) DO NOT take, use or alter!!

*Sit n Stay Positive is designed to introduce training foundations, address normal puppy behavior, and prevent the development of behavior problems. Sit n Stay Positive is not designed to treat serious behavior problems (such as reactivity, aggression, anxiety, or extreme fear). Please consult with your veterinarian or a licensed behaviorist if your puppy is displaying extreme behavior issues. Your puppy’s success depends on you doing your homework and working with your puppy at least twice a day.

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