[BostonRott]

I completely agree with Ann, and would only add that I have my neighborhood kids into the box starting at 3 weeks. The kids range in age from 2 years to 14. Some are good with the pups, some aren't. Teaches the pups to read and accept all body language and to understand it.

I take pups to the fire station, the bank, training facilities where I know no sick dogs are, the SchH field, and anywhere else that I happen to go. They grow up in my dining room, the hear the vaccuum, the coffee grinder, the dishwasher, the garbage disposal, pots/pans, the TV, the blasting stereo (Hubby!!), and all the other assorted household noises. We also make a point of leaving a radio on with them all day long, starting at 2 weeks when their hearing comes in.......start at one end of the dial and work our way up, so they listen to everything from talk radio to hard rock, country to pop.

I think the Bio-sensor program is phenominal, I have used it on two litters, and have 14 puppy owners who absolutely RAVE about their puppy's temperaments and strength of nerve/character.

The pups also get to meet the cat at several different ages, as well as they have baths, get lots of nail trimming and learn to have their teeth examined.

One thing that's VERY important to mention is that socialization is an ONGOING PROCESS!!!!!!! The best socialized puppy at 8 weeks can be a disaster by 20 weeks if the work is not continued. Do not coddle the pup when it shows a fear reaction, ignore the reaction and act interested in the scary stimulus. The pup should come check it out (with quick recovery). Keep the pup out around TONS of people. Have pizza parties at your house and play "pass the puppy." Invite people over to watch a football game, rent movies, whatever. Get the pup out to the mall, the grocery store, the post office on a Saturday, and sit with lots of treats and reward good behaviour and calm reactions. Let the pup see that the world is full of a variety of people, and most of them are good. :D