So you have a new dog at home! You’re ready to get started on training, but you aren’t exactly sure where to start. Socializing your wonderful dog is very important for both you and your pup. It is the best way to ensure your dog will be happy and well-adjusted. Plus, a socialized dog makes life easier. You will have no problem bringing him into a pet-friendly store, dog park, vet, or even a kennel.
Where should you start with the socialization, however? Read on for five easy tips that will help your dog learn how to easily be around other humans and dogs.
1. Start Young
Young puppies can start to be socialized by their breeders, even when they are still with their mother. Experts agree that a puppy can start to learn socialization skills at around three weeks of age. During this time, your puppy will become exposed to numerous sounds, sights, and smells. Starting early allows the puppy to become acquainted with the different sensations all around him. If this doesn’t begin early, your puppy may take longer to become comfortable around unfamiliar situations.
2. Introduce Your Dog to Others
Continually exposing your dog to other people will help them remain social. Remember, your dog needs to be introduced to strangers on a regular basis. This helps reinforce the idea that strangers are not the threat they may instinctively think they are.
Your dog needs to be social with more than just people. You’ll want to introduce your dog to other dogs as much as possible. One easy way is to simply take your dog for regular leash walks around your town. He will get the best of both worlds this way, as you will likely come across strangers walking their own dogs. Just remember, your dog should always be on a leash, no matter how friendly you believe he is. Check the leash laws of your state.
You can also take your dog to local dog parks or on play dates with your friends’ dogs. This will help them get used to other animals quickly and will have the added benefit of tiring them out from play!
3. Change Direction When Walking
Don’t let your dog get used to walking the same way every time. He should get the chance to experience different environments. Pick a new street to go down or a dead-end dirt road that looks interesting. Walk near traffic (safely) to help your dog learn that loud noises are okay and normal. Look for quieter areas to walk where your dog will hear and see nature. This helps them prepare for anything that comes their way.
4. Don’t Get Mad
If your dog displays aggression, it may be a sign of fear. Try not to be caught off guard if it happens, especially when you are training a new or young animal. Your dog may react to what he perceives as a threat by trying to flee or with confrontation. Punishing him for this simply confirms that the fear is real, so take your dog out of the situation if it happens. You can also redirect their behavior by asking them to do a command they know well, such as “sit” or “stay.”
5. Encourage Alone Time
Dogs are social animals and enjoy being around humans and other dogs. However, this will not always be an option for them, so it is a good idea to get them used to the idea of being alone. If you schedule some daily alone time for your dog, starting as young as possible, this will also help with separation anxiety issues. You can use a baby gate or dog crate to give your dog time to be alone for a little bit each day.
Following these five tips will help you socialize your dog in no time. Good luck and have fun with your precious pup!
