puppy socializing

Question
I have an 11 week old JRT.  I am aware of the need for early socialization, so i have taken him to a puppy socialization class at the local vet clinic.  Unfortunately, the puppies there are HUGE and my little jack was fearful. Although the other dogs are still puppies, and were trying to play, their sheer size makes my jack feel afraid and hides behind us.  The trainer says that it is a good idea to leave him to his own devices and not 'rescue' him if he is afraid. I have to tell you that by the end of the hour though, my jack was trying to play with a big lab puppy (wagging high tail). i'm not sure about this type of socializing. Should i look for a smaller breed playgroup, or just stick to puppy obedience class?  What do you think?

Answer
Hi Dawne,
Congratulations on your new puppy!
I have heard both sides of your dilema...
I agree with you and put my own puppies in classes with smaller puppies. I don't see the point of stressing a new puppy out by taking the chance that he will get accidently stomped on. I know the private dog schools offer puppy classes according to size, but the Petco's and PetSmarts put a whole bunch of the puppies together in a small little ring in the store.
Your jack can get just as well socialized with smaller puppies than big ones.  Sometimes the disposition of the dogs aren't known either.  
Some people, like the PetCo 'trainer' might believe that  you are "saving" your puppy - and that's exactly what you're supposed to do with babies............
Everyone has a personal opinion. Go with your gut.
Start off with Puppy Kindergarten and continue on from there.  Very best of luck to both of you!
Take care,
Carol