Question about Puppy Preschool

[adobeboxers]

I have a choice betwwen taking my puppy to a preschool that starts when he is 10 1/2 weeks or 13 1/2 weeks. He has already had the 2nd round of his shots. Is there a better time to start him? Both teachers are great and have worked with them both before, so that really isn't a decision maker.

Some background...he is 9 weeks right now, male and my 2nd boxer. He has not met my other boxer yet (he is with family out of town). He will meet his older brother 2 days before the 1st preschool starts. Is sooner better or is older better? He is very independent, loves to growl and bark and play rough.

Any advice? Does it matter?

 

[kelbel1]

I just want to say that Trinity and I started puppy preschool lastnight, and she is 9 weeks old also. The trainer here said that the sooner, the better. As long as they are caught up on their shots and have the Bordetella vaccine. I am too excited. :D She is ROTTEN. I am going to have to agree with the trainer though, unless you want another professional opinion. THE SOONER THE BETTER!!!!!!!!!!!


KELLY AND TRINITY

 

[1CRAZYBXRLVR]

Maybe Dan would like to jump in here, but I was told when my Giguere was that age, not to take him anywhere in public until all his shots were complete. Otherwise, there is the risk of the puppy contracting Parvo or any of the other infections by coming in contact with other dogs/feces, etc. If I'm wrong, someone correct me, but I don't want you to take a chance with your pups if this is truly the case.

 

[kassa]

Most of the obedience/agility people would say that the benefits of the socialization/training outweigh the physical risks. In a structured environment where all the puppies are required to have shown documentation that they've had "some" of their shots they're a lot safer than they are walking down the average city sidewalk or going to PetCo/Petsmart for a new leash (which I wouldn't do with a pup the same age).

To me, it's a (pretty slight) risk I'm willing to run for the (pretty substantial) benefits of the dog gaining that life experience.

I would check out the place ahead of time -- if it looks like they're slovenly about cleaning up, run away. But all in all, I think earlier is better.

 

[kelbel1]

I will admit that I was sort of worried about how young she was also. My trainer and my vet both recommended that she be up to date on her shots and have the bordetella vaccination for kennel cough and shed be ok. I agree that the pros of obedience far outweighs the risks of infection. I wouldn't change it for the world.

 

[Tulsa-Dan]

In that environment, where all the pups have had some vaccinations and are still somewhat protected from mother's milk, it would be ok. The main thing is to keep the pup away from feces and the like of dogs which may be carrying disease. I doubt you'll be around much poop, etc., in that setting.

I also believe the sooner/more socialization the better.

Good luck.

 

[adobeboxers]

Thanks so much for the advice/input. Titus had his first class yesterday and did well...the socialization is great for him and there also are some little kids in the class too so that is a benefit. He is so excited to meet other puppies he doesn't know what to do with himself.

The teacher double checked that everyone had at least their 2nd round of shots and gave us homework!!

Thanks-
Katie and Titus

 

[1CRAZYBXRLVR]

Good. I'm glad to hear it's okay. I wish I had known about Boxerworld when my "kids" were little. I waited until all their shots were done until I took them out to socialize them. Had I known, I would've done it earlier.

Good luck with the training!

Andrea