Training tip from Andrew:
Beware the problems of having of a winter puppy.
I would argue the most important time in your puppies life is the first 6 months. This is your dog's primary socialization window and if your puppy doesn't meet enough people or enough dogs, you're going to be solving problems in your dog's adult life.
Most people think timid, nervous, or aggressive dogs were victims of physical abuse or other types of trauma. Most of them, in reality, were probably just drastically undersocialized.
In the summer months when everyone is out and about and parks are crowded, it's easy for your puppy to be exposed to tons of new people, places and things. In the winter months, when we tend to hibernate a little bit ourselves, it's more of a chore.
If you're getting a puppy in November through February, save yourself a bunch of problems and find a way to get your dog to be social.
A good puppy class (we have a 3 week one starting December 3rd to make sure none of our DogDayz puppies missed out) is a good start. It's not the only work you'll have to do though. It's at least a good place for your dog to meet some new dogs (who will teach him how to play) and some new people in a safe and controlled environment.
As I always like to say, in life and in dog training, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Be vigilant with your winter puppy's successful socialization.
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