I actually just finished reading his book “After You Get Your Puppy” the night before the seminar. I signed up for the Ian Dunbar lecture because although I had never read one of his books, he had been referenced in many of the dog behavior books I have read.
If I were to pick the most important thing I gleaned from Dr. Dunbar’s lecture I think the it would be how dependent we all are on our dog breeders in New Zealand. It is really up to them whether we start out with a puppy who is socialized with many different people/noises/situations so that they are a behaviorally healthy and confident pup or if we get a puppy that is physically healthy but will be prone to shyness and house soiling! The most important socialization for a puppy happens BEFORE they are 8 weeks old!
It sure would be fantastic if any of the breeders in the Wellington area are interested in this information or already socialize, chew toy and crate train their puppies before 8 weeks old, then I would love to hear from you. I would like to start a page on my site with a list of conscientious dog breeders, so that when my clients are looking for a puppy I can give them names of breeders that I know will provide them with a puppy that is not only physically healthy but mentally health as well!
