Many dog breeds seem to
be friendly for the most part, but there is not one dog out there that does not
benefit from continued socialization. Socialization is a key factor in good
mental health for the dog and in making a beloved member of the family. But
socialization includes more than just being around other people or dogs. It can
include training your dog to be tolerant of being touched on the feet, someone
coming close to them when they are eating, or even accepting of loud noises,
just to mention a few. If not conducted in a proper manner, you can actually do
more harm with your efforts than good. The last thing you want or need is to
attempt socialization and have it back fire on you.
Prior to socializing a
dog, a person should understand the traits and temperament of the breed of dog
they are working with. Often times you can benefit from doing research on your
dog's particular breed to learn about character traits. If you are dealing with
a mixed breed, you may want to research all of the breeds involved in your
dog's genealogy. Understanding what challenges may be present can help
determine the best method for handling them.
For this article I am
referring mainly to keeping your dog socialized around people and other dogs.
The more you socialize your dog, the better he or she will respond when
confronted with unfamiliar people or dogs. This can be exceptionally true with
some small breeds and children. But again, keep in mind when socializing your
pet, keeping them under control may be vital to avoiding a serious conflict
that could result in injury to the dog or innocent bystanders. Never force a
social issue onto your dog. Some dogs may need more time to slowly acclimate to
strangers while others may not feel threatened at all. Your dog may respond
aggressively to one person but not the next. And there is nothing wrong with
that; not every dog likes every person, just as we humans don't always like
everyone we meet. However, as a responsible pet owner you are accountable for
making certain no harm comes to anyone at any time, so never force your dog to
accept someone.
When working on
socialization be sure to offer an escape plan for the dog. Even if it is
nothing more than allowing them to jump into your lap or picking them up if
they appear nervous, uncomfortable or fearful in a situation. This is important
no matter what the age of your dog. He or she must be able to trust that you
will protect them or you may end up harming your own relationship in the
process.
There are many
differences in socializing an adult dog versus a puppy, just as there is with
socializing with people versus other dogs. Obviously puppies have the advantage
as they are more accepting of new people and situations, especially during the
earlier ages of 1 to 4 months. While older dogs may have had some previous bad experiences
that have left them anxious, fearful or cautious. When it comes to a rescued
adult dog more often than not, you will not have any idea what environment the
dog came from. You will not be aware of what things have left negative
impressions on him or her as a result of past encounters, so take the process
very slow to begin with.
When it comes to
socializing with other dogs, never assume the other dog is friendly. Play it
safe and be prepared for something to go wrong. Do not allow first time encounters
to be unsupervised. Typically if you visit a dog park, most of those dogs are
friendly and used to being around other dogs, but that does not negate the fact
that any dog can unexpectedly turn aggressive. Until you are familiar with the
new dog be vigilant in keeping your dog safe. After all it may not be the other
dog that suddenly becomes aggressive, it could be yours!
Some common places you
can turn to for socialization besides dog parks are pet stores, pet fairs,
walking trails, community events even obedience classes can be useful. The
important factor is to match the environment to your dog's social skills.
Attempting to socialize a dog for the first time at a community event with a
hundreds of people present could be overwhelming. If you don't know what your
dog can handle, assume it is very little and start slow. You can progress as
quickly as you need if things are going well. It's important to avoid sensory
overload with unfamiliar noises and smells as well.
If you plan to put your
dog in a car to travel to a location for socialization keep in mind the dog's
safety inside your car. This could be the first step in making sure your
socializing encounters are positive ones. The last thing you want to do is
start the process out by stressing your dog out with a scary car ride. Provide
a comfortable and secure seat for your dog. If possible choose a particular
seat for your dog to sit in each time he or she gets in the vehicle. For
smaller breeds consider using a dog car booster seat, lookout seat or console
seat that will elevate them up to a height that allows them to see out the
window and get some fresh air if needed. This can go a long way to start the
dogs travel experience in a positive manner. Start the training out properly
and begin immediately by restraining your dog. Do not wait until they are more
comfortable with the car. Get them started right away with understanding that
inside the car they stay seated and are not allowed to roam freely.
If you struggle with
getting your dog to accept other people and dogs look for a good training book.
I don't think there is a pet owner alive who has not heard of Cesar Milan. Your
veterinarian can direct you to proper training materials as well. As with any
training, always reward your dog after a positive learning experience. Praise
and recognition goes a long way especially when accompanied by a small special
treat! Make sure he or she knows how happy their behavior has made you. After
all, isn't that what most dogs live for?
