Puppies who get to play with lots of different pups during their early months learn how to communicate better with other dogs, learn confidence around other dogs, and are much more well-adjusted as adults. 

Just playing with the other dog in your house or the neighbor's dog isn't adequate - your pup needs to learn to be comfortable around strange dogs too!  Similar to people, dogs have different communication styles, and the more "dog" your puppy understands the less likely there is to be a misunderstanding between your pup and another.  Supervision is important when puppies play too! This is so the shy pups don't get bullied and become fearful, and the bullies learn how to work and play well with others. 

Also, at this age your puppy is learning how to use his or her jaws.  We want them to learn how to inhibit their bites so that their teeth don't damage other dogs or people when they're adults.  Any dog could bite if scared or hurt enough - even the most even-tempered!  Simply telling them "NO" when they bite won't teach them anything about jaw pressure.  Playing with other puppies and giving them feedback when they bite YOU does.  See our handout on Bite Inhibition for more information.

Age:  Our Puppy Socials are for pups aged 8 weeks to 6 months, but all puppies must be less than 20 weeks of age the first time they attend.  This is because they still have puppy teeth at that point, and if they do bite another dog, are very unlikely to do any real damage. 

Health:  All puppies must have had their first deworming, be healthy, and not show any signs of contagious disease (diarrhea, coughing, runny eyes, lethargy). 

Vaccinations:  YOUR PUPPY DOES *NOT* NEED TO HAVE THE *COMPLETE* SET OF VACCINATIONS!  He or she just needs to be current on the DHLPP vaccination.  Puppies usually start their DHLPP vaccinations when they are between 8 to 10 weeks old, and get a booster every 2 to 3 weeks.  As long as your pup has had at least one DHLPP vaccination, and the last one was within the last 2 -3 weeks, your puppy is eligible.  Proof of vaccination is required - puppies will not be admitted without proof of vaccination.  We can allow pups who aren't fully vaccinated because the floors are sanitized for their protection.  Just to be safe, however, we suggest that you carry your puppy from your car into the classroom. 

If your veterinarian tells you that the puppy must have ALL vaccinations before attending, he or she may not be current on the latest protocols for puppy socialization and vaccinations.  The recommendation of the American Society of Veterinary Behavioristsis (AVSAB)is as follows: 

"In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as  7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first deworming  They should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class."

If your veterinarian wants more information, you can print out a flyer from AVSAB that discusses WHY the protocols have changed - primarily, it's because, "Behavioral issues, not infectious diseases, are the number one cause of death for dogs under three years of age. "  The AVSAB Puppy Socialization Position Statement can be downloaded from the AVSAB website.

Our Adolescent Socials are open to any dogs aged 6 months to 1 year who have attended at least 3 sessions of one of the following:

• Pacifica Pet Dog Training Puppy Social
• Pacifica Pet Dog Training Puppy Class
• Any Puppy social
• Any reward-based/positive puppy class where puppies are allowed to play offleash

Dogs that we do not know, or who do not have a referral from a qualified trainer will need to be interviewed before being allowed to join the Adolescent Social.  Dogs attending the Adolescent Socials must be current on DHLPP and Rabies.

Who is eligible to attend Small Dog Playgroup?

Any dog 6 months or older, and 25 lb. or less who has NOT exhibited aggression towards other dogs may join us.  If you would like to join us, please fill out and e-mail or fax the Playgroup Questionnaire to us.  The questionnaire can be found here:  Playgroup Questionnaire.  If you are unsure whether or not your dog qualifies, fill out the questionnaire anyway, and make sure to note your specific concerns.  We will then call you to discuss whatever issue it is that concerns you.

When are the Socials and Playgroups held?

Puppy Socials are held every Wednesday evening from 7 PM to 8 PM

Adolescent Socials are held every Wednesday evening from 8 PM to 8:45 PM

Small Dog Playgroup is Monday nights from 7:30 PM to 8:15 PM

RSVP IS REQUIRED BEFORE YOUR FIRST VISIT! 

Where are the Socials and Playgroups held?

At the old Oddstad School:  930 Oddstad Blvd.  Click on this link for a map and directions.

What should I bring to the Social or Playgroup?

Bring your dog or puppy, some treats, and the most recent copy of your dog's vaccinations records.  For the safety of all our dog clients, no dogs will be allowed in without proof of vaccination.  You can also view our Puppy Social handout for more information on what to bring, what to expect, and puppy social rules.

What does Play cost?

Puppy and Adolescent Socials are  $10 per hour-long session

Small Dog Playgroups are  $6 per half-hour session

We also offer our "Frequent Player Card" - good for 10 sessions at a 10% discount.  $90 for Puppies & Adolescents, $50 for Small Dog.

RSVP for the first night is always required.  Contact us with your name and your pup's name, breed, and age:

Phone:  650-557-1583

E-mail:  training@pacificapet.com 

For the Small Dog Playgroup, fill out the Playgroup Questionnaire and submit it to us.