Beagle

　　Would you delay a child's socialization until after all their shots? Would you keep them indoors all day for fear of illness?

　　Certainly not. Yet some dog owners still hear that young puppies should be isolated.

　　Is early socialization risky? Of course, just as human children face risks. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association agrees that the benefits far outweigh the risks, and there are ways to reduce these risks.

　　Following these guidelines, I have socialized hundreds of young puppies in New York City and other areas over 25 years, never experiencing severe illness outbreaks.