A Smarter Way to Socialize Puppies
Confidence, Choice, and Thoughtful Early Experiences
Puppy socialization has evolved; and for good reason. We now understand that healthy development isn’t about chaotic play or cramming in as many interactions as possible. It’s about mindful, structured, puppy-led experiences that build confidence, resilience, and emotional stability for the long term.
The most effective puppy socialization introduces young dogs to new sights, sounds, smells, people, and other dogs in a way that feels safe and supportive. When puppies are allowed to investigate at their own pace with skilled guidance and well-matched companions, their confidence begins to grow in real time.
What to Expect at Puppy Socials
Dogs On The Run’s Puppy Socials represent a modern, welfare-based, Fear Free approach to early socialization.
Led by Courtney Roberts, CPDT-KA, FDM, FFCP(T), these sessions are designed to support puppies during this critical stage of development while also empowering Pet Parents with practical knowledge they can use beyond class.
Puppy Socials focus on:
Mindful, puppy-led exposure to novel environments
Carefully designed themed set-ups explored at each puppy’s pace
Opportunities to interact with well-matched puppy playmates and/or a calm, well-mannered adult role-model dog
Learning to read your puppy’s body language and play style
Guidance on organizing safe, positive social experiences with friends and family
Weekly themed environments may include:
A Visit to the Vet or Groomer
Out to the Park
Party with Friends
This isn’t outdated, overstimulating playtime — it’s intentional social learning, supported by an experienced, credentialed professional.
Learn How to Be Your Puppy’s Advocate
Puppies experience a critical developmental window between 3 and 18 weeks of age. Safe, structured, and positive exposure during this time has a lasting impact on how they view and move through the world as adult dogs.
Contrary to popular belief, more is not always better. The goal is quality, not quantity. Supporting your puppy thoughtfully during this phase helps them develop confidence without pressure.
Here are a few simple ways to support healthy development at home:
Minimize long periods of isolation from human family members
Engage in interactive play such as tug, fetch, or hide-and-seek
Scatter food and treats through obstacle courses using boxes, water bottles, or bubble wrap across a variety of surfaces (grass, pavement, carpet, tile, mulch)
Use tools like the Sound Proof Puppy Training app to gently desensitize puppies to new noises
Encourage calm interactions with family members and friends
Arrange supervised play dates with familiar, healthy, well-mannered adult dogs
Allow puppies to passively observe unfamiliar people and dogs from a safe distance
Support sniff-based exploration of new environments at the puppy’s own pace
Use strollers, carriers, shopping carts, or blankets to help puppies safely experience new places
Keep social experiences short and positive, always allowing puppies the choice to disengage
Introduce body handling, grooming tools, and walking equipment slowly to build calm associations
Schedule “happy visits” with veterinarians, groomers, and other care providers to support lifelong cooperative care
Small, intentional moments add up to big outcomes.
Join Us at DOTR HQ: Puppy Socials
Dogs On The Run invites Pet Parents to experience this modern approach firsthand at Puppy Socials, hosted at DOTR Headquarters.
DATES: Every Saturday Session Dates: December 13, 2025 – January 17, 2026 (6 weeks)
TIME: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
INSTRUCTOR: Courtney Roberts, CPDT-KA, FDM, FFCP(T)
LOCATION: Dogs On The Run HQ 3176 Lionshead Ave, Suite 101 Carlsbad, CA 92010
COST: 5-Session Package: $150 Single Session Drop-In: $40
Puppy Eligibility
Puppies 6 months and under
Under 16 weeks: minimum of 2 rounds of DAP
Over 16 weeks: 3 rounds of DAP + rabies vaccination
At Dogs On The Run, we believe early experiences should feel supportive, educational, and empowering for puppies and their people alike. Puppy Socials are designed to help you build a confident foundation that lasts well beyond puppyhood.
We’d love to welcome you and your puppy. 🐾
