New places...how often? - Page 1

So, I've had my pup almost two weeks now.  We've gone to a few different places for environmental/human socialization.  Lowes, Tractor Supply, Main Street, vet, etc.  He also has absolutely no issues with random, odd surfaces, even walked on top of this nearly 4 foot high concrete thing.....not sure how to describe it, but it has water shooting up in different places in the middle, and a train even went by while we were there.....Didn't phase him at all.  Stairs, cardboard boxes, tables, couches, laid down fencing, and many other surfaces....he seems to enjoy running all over things like that. Even a kids playground/swingset thing for that matter.  He seems to have no issues with new places or environments, but how often should I take him to new places? Keep in mind he's 12 weeks.

Just your everday life should be good.

Here is a thread where this was discussed.

http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/forum.read?mnr=174156

GSDguy, take him everywhere for the first year it will pay off in the long run. also dont forget what your pup is ok with now does not mean in 3 months it will be ok. Puppies go through many changes mentally and physically. Take advantage of your puppies willingness to learn.

Thanks guys.  Question.....What about with people? Just have him to go new places and "work" so to speak around people?  I mean even at this age, I've noticed some people he really likes, most he's fine with them being around, and then there are some people that he seems suspicious about. Should I just take him different places and have people not pet him while I just walk him around and expose him to things?  He's a great pup, no issues at the vet either.  A dog was barking his head off there the other day and bouncing off the walls (literally, but on leash) at the other side of the vet clinic's waiting room and my pup listened to me when I called him, and kept focus with the treat.  I even had him jumping up on the chair in the exam room (it wasn't that high up) and sitting there.  He liked the vet tech women and did great there over all as well. 

Have everyone pet him and especially children. The last thing you want is a scared or "suspicious" GSD on your hands. Make everything a fun game.

I am on the opposite side of the fence and don't feel like your dog needs to be petted by everyone.  I understand the concept and theory behind it and don't fault those that do but I do see it as something that has to be done or the pup will grow up to be scared or suspicious if it doesn't happen.  
I think if a puppy is going to be scared of people if he doesn't get petted by many as a pup then you have a whole 'nother set of issues on your hand.

Socialization should be just your daily routine and take them with you.  I wouldn't go out of my way to do stuff but if some chances presented itself then sure why not.

Thanks.  I mean he's fine with people being around, some he really likes, some he's cool with but if they pet him or not.....he doesn't care.....And the ones he has been suspicious about.....honestly, I was suspicious about them too, they looked and acted very shady.  He would just watch them like a hawk.