Socialization is the process during which the puppy develops relationships with the other living beings in the puppy's environment. The experiences that the puppy has during the first four months of life will dramatically influence the puppy's adult personality.

To prevent asocial behavior and biting, it is very important that the puppy has frequent, positive experiences with everyone the puppy meets during these early months. Be sure to avoid physical punishment and any interactions with people that make the puppy anxious. Puppies that receive insufficient socialization to people, other animals and new environments during their first four months may develop irreversible fears, leading to timidity or aggression.

The puppy should meet as many new people as possible in a variety of situations. To facilitate introductions, encourage each person who meets the puppy to give the puppy a treat. This will teach the puppy to look forward to meeting people and discourage hand-shyness, since the puppy will learn to associate new friends and an outstretched hand with something special. Once the puppy has learned to sit on command, have each new friend ask the puppy to sit before getting the treat. This teaches a proper greeting and will make the puppy less likely to jump up on people. Be sure your puppy has the opportunity to meet a wide variety of people of all ages, races, appearances and both sexes during these early months.

Best wishes for a long and happy relationship!