Socialization is far more than simply allowing puppies to spend time around people. It is the thoughtful and gradual process of introducing them to the many sights, sounds, surfaces, environments, challenges, and relationships they will encounter throughout their lives. At Kingridge, these experiences are never left to chance. Each puppy is carefully guided through a purposeful socialization program designed to encourage curiosity, adaptability, and a healthy response to new situations. Because our puppies are raised in the heart of our home, meaningful human interaction and family life begin from the very start.
Seven Steps to Socialization
By the end of their seventh week, our puppies have been thoughtfully introduced to at least seven experiences within each of seven important areas of development. Together, these 49 carefully selected experiences help begin building the confidence and adaptability needed to navigate an ever-changing world. Each experience is introduced gradually, positively, and with close attention to the individual puppy. Our goal is not simply exposure, but to help each puppy learn that new things can be explored safely and successfully.
- Climbed up steps, Introduced to cat, Run through play tunnel, entered a box, Walked over obstacles, Searched for a hidden treat, Rang a bell, Climbed down steps, Squeezed through a narrow entry way
- Light up toddler toys, Balls, Wooden toys, Yarn toys, Plastic milk jug, Squeaky toys, Cardboard tubes, Metal objects, Pop bottles
6.
Eaten from 7 different types of containers
- Plastic, Cardboard, Ceramic, Metal, Pie tin, Clay, Baking pan, Styrofoam, Paper plate
7.
Socialized with 7 new individuals
This includes meeting people of different ages, appearances, abilities, and people using mobility assistance.
Environment, Enrichment, and Education
A.ENVIRONMENT
A puppy's early environment is critically important. Because Kingridge raises only a selected number of litters, we are able to devote extraordinary attention to every puppy born in our care. Our puppies are surrounded by family life, varied play structures, age appropriate challenges, and abundant opportunities for curiosity and exploration. Labrador Retriever puppies are naturally curious and they thrive in a rich personal learning environment.
B.ENRICHMENT
The environment that a puppy is raised in is extremely important. A lively nurturing environment filled with enriching stimuli and experiences is best for any newborn's development, and it is no different when it comes to the Labrador Retriever. It takes much time and individual attention with the puppies in the litter to ensure that each specific pup has been enriched and is thriving in his or her early environment.
C.EDUCATION
Living is learning. Through safe, positive experiences, our puppies begin learning how to engage with people, respond to gentle guidance, and approach unfamiliar situations with ease and curiosity. During the later weeks of their time with us, these experiences begin to blend naturally into age-appropriate foundational obedience training.
Better Prepared for Life
Implementing the seven steps of socialization, along with individualized attention and full immersion in our rich learning environment, we feel that our socialization program better enables our puppies to adjust to future changes, and helps them remain calmer when challenged by life's inevitable transitions. At Kingridge Kennels our Labrador Retriever puppies are well prepared to leave their initial home here in Pittsburgh and acclimate to their new lives in various environments and situations, anywhere throughout the world.
When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is man that You are mindful of him, the son of man that You care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor.
