SOCIALIZATION:
"Play-Training"

Toronto Small Dogs' unique socialization and "play-training" sessions are designed exclusively for extra-small, tiny and miniature dogs.

Not all small dogs are the same - some don't even enjoy playing with other dogs! These play-training sessions are for these "special" small dogs.

VERY IMPORTANT!

Fear can and usually will turn into aggression if not treated, especially in small dogs who have never been socialized before. We ONLY accept dogs who are fearful but haven't progressed to acting aggressively towards dogs or people.

Many dog owners believe their dogs are "aggressive", when in fact their dog is not. On the other hand, some dog owners believe their dog is just "playing" when they bark and lunge at other dogs they meet. In either of these situations, it would be best to make an appointment for a temperament assessment to fully understand your individual situation and your dog's behavior.

 

Our number one priority is to ensure that your dog has a SAFE and POSITIVE socialization experience. In order to accomplish this, we do the following:

• We only accept small dogs with lower energy levels and play styles (ex. Chihuahua, Maltese, Havanese, Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, etc.).

• We have designed our entire indoor and outdoor areas with your small dog's safety as our first priority (privacy fencing, size-appropriate toys and rubber floors for safe play).

There are no gaps in our fence!!

 

Jasper, Kailo and Tiny love lounging on the mats and watching squirrels in the yard!

Even in winter, the dogs love our safe, fenced yard!

 

• Play-training sessions are ALWAYS closely supervised by myself, Nadia Pike. I am a dog trainer who is Pet First-Aid certified and highly experienced in supervising small-dog play.

• The absolute maximum number of dogs in any play-training session is only 8. This ensures your small dog will never feel overwhelmed.

An average day at Toronto Small Dogs - 5 dogs happily playing!

• Our professional facility is adjacent to our home, on our own private property. Your small dog will feel like she's having a play-date at her friend's house!

Our cozy daycare facility - can you see our brick house in the background?

Playing on the outdoor carpet!

 

Everyone's learning what a "play-bow" means!

What is SOCIALIZATION?

If you've ever taken your dog to a group training class or read a book about dog training, you know that every dog owner should "socialize" their dog.

What does "socialization" mean? Basically, it means exposing your puppy or dog to as many different people, other dogs, places, situations, sounds, etc. as possible. Socializing your puppy or dog should start early in life and continue to be a priority until your dog is at least 2 years of age.

An important fact all small dog owners should know is that socialization HAS to happen with all 4 of your dog's feet on the floor! In other words, although enjoyable, carrying your puppy in your arms while on a shopping trip cannot be counted as socialization time. However, if your pup is on a leash walking around the store with you while you shop, that's GREAT dog-human socialization!

Now, what about dog-dog socialization? If your small dog is already displaying signs of fear around other dogs (lowered stance, tail tucked between the legs, pulling back on the leash when meeting other dogs, growling or barking), what do you do? How do you socialize a small dog that is already fearful and shy?

 

Socialization (Play-Training) Rates:

Initial Temperament Assessment: $20

(2-hour session where your dog will be slowly introduced to a limited number of friendly dogs one-by-one. We pay close attention to your dog's comfort level to ensure a positive, enjoyable initial socialization experience).

After the initial temperament assessment, you can choose 2 types of socialization sessions:

• HOURLY: $7 per hour (minimum 2 hour session)
• DAILY: $40 per day (6 or more consecutive hours. Ex: 10am until 6pm)

 

Hours of Operation:

(We are closed infefinitely...)