Cut through the myths, find out what works

Socialisation is so much more than 'meet lots of dogs.' In this short course you’ll unpack the biggest misconceptions and learn what truly builds confident, well-adjusted adult dogs: quality over quantity, tailored exposure, and calm, positive experiences across sights, sounds, scents, textures and environments. You’ll gain simple ways to explain body language, when to step back, and how to adapt plans to each puppy’s temperament - so you can give clear, credible advice that protects welfare for life.
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Young vizsla puppy facing away from camera and watching horses on the other side of the fence

About This Course

    1. The science of puppy socialisation - overview

    2. Words matter

    1. Debunking socialisation myths: Myth #1

    2. Debunking socialisation myths: Myth #2

    3. Debunking socialisation myths: Myth #3

    4. Debunking socialisation myths: Myth #4

    5. ADAPTIL Junior puppy journal

    6. Debunking socialisation myths: Myth # 5

    1. Why socialise?

    2. A deep dive into the science of socialisation

    1. Socialising a litter of puppies

    2. Socialisation - getting it right pt.1

    3. Socialisation - getting it right pt.2

    4. ELEMENTS framework

    5. Understanding canine body language Pt.1

    6. Understanding canine body language Pt.2

    7. Sleep in puppies

    1. Pre-vaccination socialisation Pt.1

    2. Pre-vaccination socialisation Pt.2

    1. Using ADAPTIL to aid socialisation pt.1

    2. Using ADAPTIL to aid socialisation pt.2

    3. CEVA Reference Guide 2025

Course details

  • £35.00
  • 25 lessons
  • Additional downloadable content
  • Plus additional references

  • Online study

    Flexible, at-home study to fit your schedule so you can learn at your own pace

  • Lifetime access

    Once enrolled you will have lifetime access to all course content and additional downloads

  • Science-led

    Fully referenced and developed using scientific and experience-based knowledge from highly accredited professionals within the animal behaviour sector

Authors

Gwen Bailey

Puppy School Founder and Director

Internationally renowned behaviourist, Gwen Bailey BSc(Hons), is Founder and Director of Puppy School. She is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour Training Council (ABTC), member and past Chair of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), author of 14 books on dog training and behaviour, including The Perfect Puppy, and is considered one of the leading practitioners in her field.

Nicole Harris

Puppy School Behaviour Team

Nicole has been running Puppy School classes since 2009. She is an Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) registered Clinical Animal behaviourist and Animal Training Instructor and sits on the committee for the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC). She is also a certified member of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians (FABC), a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT). Nicole creates and presents Puppy School’s twice-yearly puppy behaviour courses for tutors and associates.

Claire Luscombe

Puppy School Behaviour Team

Claire has played an important and innovative role in Puppy School since its inception, running classes for over 20 years and now helping to teach and educate our existing tutors and trainees. She is a Regional Manager for Devon, and Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) registered Animal Training Instructor and member no. 01336 of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).

Pre-vaccination socialisation - safely and successfully

Make the most of the 3–12 week socialisation window without increasing disease risk. We’ll show you practical, clinic-ready ideas to share with owners; from at-home sound and scent work to carried outings, car-watch sessions, and stress-reducing clinic visits. Plus we include supportive tools to keep sessions positive (e.g., calming setups and step-by-step owner handouts). You’ll leave with ready-to-use guidance that helps families start socialising the right way from day one.
Young spaniel puppy being carried by puppy parent in a papoose for socialisation

Help every puppy start strong

Gain practical strategies and ready to use resources that make your guidance clear and effective. Help puppy parents make the most of their puppy's critical socialisation window with proven, science-based techniques.
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