Positive socialization is so important for our puppies and dogs to be happy and confident in different situations. The tips below have been adapted from www.fearfreehappyhomes.com
Don’t Delay, Socialize Today
· Start small and remember to work at an “intensity” at which your dog is comfortable. Keep your outings short, sweet and positive.
· Whatever new thing you are introducing, remember that you can limit the intensity by increasing the distance/volume and by reducing the duration.
· Always watch your dog’s body language. Is he happy (relaxed/loose body movements) or is he stressed (tight/rigid/still body)?
Socialize in Smart Places
· For young puppies, avoid dog parks, rest stops or any areas where non/under-vaccinated dogs may gather.
· Choose places that have quiet areas in case your dog needs more distance to be successful.
Prescribe year-round protection against worms, flea, ticks and other parasites
· As your dog explores new environments, ensure he is protected and remains healthy.
Enjoyable Experiences
· Pair the experiences with something your dog finds rewarding – treats, favorite toy and/or snuggles.
· An example is a short trip to Starbucks paired with a Puppuccino.
· Another example is a trip to the ball field paired with a long line and a game of fetch.
Out if Overwhelmed
· If you dog is clearly overwhelmed, please leave the area or stop the exposure. Try again another day, but break the exposure up into smaller steps.
· Always have an exit plan. Your dog will thank you for it.
Socialize for the Present and Future
· Gently expose your dog to experiences that he will see regularly.
· It’s also good to prepare your dog for experiences that he is likely to encounter in the future.
· For example, your home is in a quiet neighborhood, but you are planning to visit a busy city in the near future. You will want to slowly expose your dog to traffic noises now.
As always, happy training!