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The Best Ways to Socialize Your Dog

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When you and your furry friend go on outings together, it's a chance for him to show off how well-behaved he is. Since dogs don't come pre-programmed with social skills, he needs your help to know how you expect him to act in certain situations. Learning how to socialize your dog involves giving him positive feedback as he interacts with the world. This will lead to predictable responses that will make both of you feel happier and safer.

 

Puppers who aren't properly socialized may develop unwanted behaviors that are hard to change later in life. Uncurbed aggression or fear can make simple activities — like meeting another pooch on a walk or going to the vet — more difficult than they should be. Taking the time to introduce your pal to an experience and rewarding him when he reacts how you want him to will help you establish a mutual understanding.

First-Time Socialization for Puppies

The ideal time to start socializing is when your puppy is between 3 and 12 weeks old. Veterinarians usually recommend waiting until a week after vaccinations and deworming to make sure he's healthy. This is usually around this time when your doggo is ready for new experiences.

 

Puppies are often eager to socialize, but take it slowly. Realize that

socialization is an ongoing life skill that will build as he — and the bond between you — grows.

These tips for socializing a puppy can help you get started:

 

  • Handle and cuddle him a lot. Pet him all over while giving him treats and praise. This will create a positive association with being touched.
  • Expose him to a variety of sounds. He'll acclimate to the ambient noise of music, traffic, and appliances and react less fearfully with your reassurances.
  • Teach him not to guard his food. Start with dropping a treat in his bowl while he's eating. Shift to picking up the bowl, putting a treat in it, then returning the bowl.
  • Introduce him to a variety of people. Interactions should be short at first and always positive. You might let someone give him a favorite treat and a few scratches.
  • Discourage him from biting. If he nips you while you're playing, say "Ow!" and pause the activity for emphasis. Offer a chew toy as an alternative.
  • Consider going on playdates. If you have friends with well-trained dogs, have a short meet-up. Praise him when he behaves well during the visit.
  • Venture into new areas and situations. Mix up where you take walks; try riding in an elevator; go on a car trip; visit a dog-friendly shop; etc.

 

Remember: Start small and expose your puppy to more experiences over time. Focus on building positive associations each step of the way.

Continued Socialization for Growing Dogs

Your furry friend — whether you've had him since puppyhood or didn't adopt him until he was older — can benefit from continued socialization. Dogs are most sensitive to socialization during their first year of life, and an ongoing approach can help you work through problem behaviors or new experiences. You can socialize an adolescent dog with a few tactics. For one, have him meet new people and other dogs to keep his social skills fresh. He can also stay sharp by going to new places, like taking walks in unfamiliar neighborhoods and parks.

 

Make sure you're setting up your pupper for success with situations based on what he's already mastered. For example, if he isn't used to large crowds yet, don't suddenly take him to the state fair. Through it all, keep rewarding and praising him, using positive reinforcement when he acts as you expect.

Socialization for Older, or Adopted Dogs

Don't despair if you've adopted an older fellow who isn't well socialized. He may have had unpleasant experiences that have left him feeling fearful or acting aggressively. Use similar techniques for socializing a puppy. Realize it will probably take more time with older dogs.

 

Slowly expose him to sights and sounds. Get him used to new things at home — what your usual background noises are, who comes and goes, what the appliances sound like. Head out on short walks and adventures, then work up to broader experiences. Reassure him with praise and rewards to build his confidence.

 

Meet new people and dogs one at a time. Older dogs may be unsure about who is a threat. Start with introducing family and friends and their well-trained dogs. Keep visits short at the beginning with all pets leashed to start. Graduate to longer and off-leash times if things stay relaxed and comfortable. Encourage all his positive behaviors with lots of love and praise.

 

Above all, be patient and realistic with your expectations. Some older dogs never fully socialize, and that's OK. Watch for your partner's cues to understand his pace and stress limits.

Do What Works for the Two of You

Developing your pupper's social skills is a lifelong journey. It all takes a lot of love, patience, and consistency.

 

Learning how to socialize your dog can feel overwhelming, particularly if your pal isn't responding well. You can enlist the help of a dog behaviorist or trainer who can offer specific techniques for you to try. Attending group obedience classes can also be great for socialization, and not just for your pup! Work at your furry friend's pace and accept that no dog behaves perfectly all the time. In the end, all the effort and care you put into socialization will make your special bond even stronger.

Posted On: Jul 13, 22