Socializing Doberman Puppies to Gunshots

This is one of many socialization things we do before puppies go home. Loud, startling noises are an easy thing to socialize for when you start early. I was about 50 yards away shooting an AR, while the puppies were eating. At this age they have such a high food drive, that a loud noise will distract them for a moment, but with the reward of food being constantly in front of them and accessible, its a guaranteed positive experience. Continuing this at a safe distance as they age, while doing 1 shot closer by (1 shot at a closer distance is not likely to cause hearing damage. a second shot increases this chance), will make sure you end up with a dog who isn't gun shy, and is considerable better around loud machinery etc.