Quote:
Originally Posted by hhalford  we totally understand the importance of socialization......we do not plan on taking the new puppy anywhere, we do plan on bringing many of our friends dogs over to play with him for "play dates" (a border collie, boxer, rat terrier, rottweiler, lab, etc.) we will also have many people come over w/o dogs. we also understand how important it is to socialize the puppy w/ children of all ages. |
No, you don't totally understand the importance of socialization. You only PARTLY understand it.
It is JUST AS IMPORTANT that your puppy be exposed to many different ENVIRONMENTS as it is that he is exposed to many different people and animals. If you keep him in the bubble of your home/yard for 6 months, what do you think is going to happen when you do take him out? Stress, that's what's going to happen - and a stress he may never be able to overcome. He will not have gained the ability to accept different environments because "the Bubble" is all he will have known during the so VERY IMPORTANT early weeks of his life.
Have you told the breeder of your socialization plans? I honestly would be very alarmed if I was a breeder and heard this and would rethink my choice of a home for one of my puppies. It's so very sad you lost Bruce, but you cannot allow your fear to drive you with this new little one. Find your common sense, and use it.
Read this thread, with special attention to the guideline Mick has given about parvo survival in the environment.
Socialisation vs. Parvo