Taking on a puppy or kitten is an exciting time, full of new experiences and learning curves, and in order for them to become happy and confident adults, it’s important your pet experiences a variety of positive experiences when young.

Encouraging lots of socialisation with other pets, people and situations is incredibly important so they don’t become nervous or aggressive as they grow up.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, says: “Socialisation has a big impact on your pet as they grow into adults. When they’re young, they can easily take things they come across in their stride and learn that there’s nothing to fear from new situations. Early experience can help shape their character for the rest of their life."

If you’re thinking of getting a puppy or kitten, always look for a reputable breeder that will have started the socialisation process for you. Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder means they will already be familiar with a family home environment.

Make sure all the new experiences your pet has are positive and they stay relaxed through the encounter. Below are a list of experiences it’s a good idea to introduce from a young age.

A wide variety of friendly pets – such as healthy, well-socialised, vaccinated pets belonging to family or friends.

Children and young people (always under supervision).

People of different ages and appearances, wearing different seasonal clothes, and specialist or sports equipment (think hiking gear or motorcycle helmets).

Loud or sudden noises, such as vacuum cleaners, washing machines, thunder and fireworks. A sound desensitisation CD can be useful for this to make sure you don’t accidentally scare your pet by starting off too heavy.

It’s best to build up new experiences gradually. For example, get them used to quieter sounds before louder ones and be sure to praise good, calm behaviour.