I consider early training, environmental conditioning and socialisation to be the biggest determining factor in ensuring a puppy develops into an emotionally stable, pro-social and socially competent adult dog, free of anxieties.
3-12 weeks are the most influential 9 weeks in a canine’s life, and how a puppy is raised during this period will set the foundation for many adult behaviour patterns and problems, and every behaviour system will be strongly affected by the experiences the puppy receives during this time. This means we need to select a puppy from an excellent breeder to ensure we start with good genetics, calm stable parents and that the puppies have received proper handling before they even leave their litter.
When our puppy comes into their new home at 8 weeks, our time is very tight, and we need to be have a good management system in place and be ready to conduct careful socialisation and environmental exposure in those precious first four weeks of our puppy’s arrival into our home.
Puppies’ brains are most open to being exposed to new and novel things, between 7-10 weeks. At 11 weeks they are already fast approaching the primary fear period which starts at 12 weeks of age, where they become much more easily spooked by new and novel things.
Starting to introduce a puppy to a busy urban environment during a fear period is doing them a huge disservice and makes them more susceptible to developing fears and anxieties. Gentle, positive, environmental exposure needs to be conducted at 8, 9 and 10 weeks of age.
It pains me to see behavioural issues well-loved adult dogs that have developed in due to the first few weeks being squandered due to bad advice, leaving things too late, and puppies having poor experiences with humans and other dogs during this critical period. A great quote from Scott & Fuller “By a critical period, we mean a special time in life when a small amount of experience will produce a great effect on later behaviour. There is no time like this critical phase for what we can achieve. Once it’s passed, it’s passed and you will never get this opportunity again throughout the dog’s life.”
There is so much to do and it’s very difficult to know what to prioritise and how to work through issues without guidance.
Our unique comprehensive puppy training program has been designed to make it easy for owners to ensure they are introducing every important element at the right micro-periods within critical phase, and we cover how to do so safely at your individual puppy’s pace.
Puppies are individuals! Like people, no two puppies are the same and we are here to guide and support you in helping your puppy to reach their full potential.
Courses through The Sound Hound run for 5 weeks and are structured as follows:
Extra video content on socialisation (good play, body language, environmental habituation, the use of food toys and more) You can find out more about what is covered and how the course works here https://www.thesoundhound.com.au/online-puppy-class
Together with VetHQ we are here to support you in ensuing your puppy becomes the best version of him or herself and is a much-loved member of your family and the wider community.
Meet Libby Young
Libby is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) with qualifications in Dog behaviour, puppy school instruction and scent detection. She is an instructor for Steve and Vicki Austin’s Courses and speaks on dog and puppy behaviour. Her special passion for puppy training was born from many years working in and managing a busy no-kill shelter as well as working with behavioural problems in adolescent and adult dogs.
You can find out more about Libby here: https://www.thesoundhound.com.au/about-libby
Follow The Sound Hound on Facebook @ The Sound Hound Dog Behaviour and Training and Instagram @thesoundhounddogbehaviour
Good nutrition is essential for long-term pet health. Dr Geoff explains the importance of balanced, AAFCO-approved diets and how tailored plans support pets with unique needs. Vet HQ provides evidence-based...
A quick but essential guide to common toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, and xylitol. Dr Geoff urges prevention and fast action if ingestion occurs.
A seasonal update covering heat safety, parasite prevention, and early-year wellness advice. Dr Geoff encourages proactive care to start the year strong.
Both clinics offer the same standard of care, shared medical records and a collaborative team. Many clients choose the location closest to home, while others visit a specific vet they love. If you are unsure, our team can guide you to the clinic that best suits your pet’s needs.
Yes. We can often see urgent cases on the same day at either our Darlinghurst or Double Bay clinic. If the situation is critical, call us right away and our team will advise the safest next step and prepare for your arrival.
We combine warm, relationship-based care with advanced diagnostics, gold-standard cat facilities and a Fear Free approach. Many of our vets and nurses have been with us for years, providing genuine continuity and a familiar, trusted team for your pet.
Absolutely. Many families travel to us from Surry Hills, Paddington, Bondi, Woollahra and across the Eastern Suburbs because they value consistent care and our wide range of services under one roof.
You’ll meet a friendly team who takes time to listen, understand your concerns and get to know your pet’s personality. We explain everything clearly, discuss options and create a plan that suits your pet’s health and your family’s routine.
You can book online or call our Darlinghurst or Double Bay clinic. It helps to have your pet’s name, species, age, any current medications, and a brief summary of what you’ve noticed. If you have recent test results or notes from another vet, bring them along so we can get up to speed quickly.
Contact Info
