Socialization in Giant Breed Puppies – What You Need to Know

Socializing your puppy is one of the most important things you’ll ever do—especially if we’re talking about a giant breed. It’s not the same to have issues with a Chihuahua as it is with a 60-kg Saint Bernard. Things get real, real fast.

Let’s talk about what socialization really is, how to do it right, and why it’s essential for a happy, balanced dog.

What is socialization?

Socialization means exposing your pup to new things: sounds, textures, people, environments, other animals. The goal is for your dog to break through fears and become confident around the unfamiliar.

You want a dog that doesn’t freeze at the sound of a motorcycle, or freak out when it steps on a cold tile floor for the first time.

When to start?

We start around 7 weeks of age. That’s when we begin to introduce:

  • Sounds: traffic, fireworks, cars, loud music, TV, even a regular radio station.

  • Textures: grass, stone, tiles, metal sheets… anything that feels new under their paws.

  • Touch: hand-feeding, petting, playing, contact every day.

We even have a puppy park designed for this, where they walk on different surfaces, hear strange noises, and slowly grow more confident.

Introducing other dogs

Huge step here. But do it carefully.

Ideally, you start with other puppies. Dogs that are also young and figuring things out. It’s important your pup meets different breeds—big and small—to learn social behavior.

If you’re introducing to an adult dog, do it outside first, not in your house. Go for a walk, let them sniff each other, and only then bring them home together.

Car rides matter too

Get them used to being in the car. At first they might freak out a bit, but over time, they’ll be fine. And then it becomes part of their routine.

This is all about building a healthy, well-rounded mind.

What happens if you don’t?

Well, I’ve seen it. I’ve taken in puppies that clearly weren’t socialized. You try to touch them and bam! They pull back, snap, hide… It’s not fun.

And yes, you can work on it. But it takes time, effort, and patience. It’s way easier to do it right from the start.

How long should socialization last?

Some people say: “Socialization ends at 6 months.” Nope. You can keep socializing until a year or more. You can even socialize adult dogs who never had the chance.

Socialization isn’t optional. It’s not a “nice to have.” It’s part of the foundation.

In short

Your dog’s personality comes from many things—genetics, upbringing—but socialization is a huge part of it.

If you want a dog you can enjoy and trust, start early, be consistent, and do it right.