Puppy socialization will not only shape your pet's behavior towards people and animals but it will also make your dog easier to get along with. I can't think of any other type of training that will have such a huge impact on your dog's life as socialization training.

 

Because puppies learn much quicker while they are still young, the best time to begin puppy socialization is during your puppy's first twelve weeks. But remember - the longer you wait before you begin socialization training, the more difficult and lengthier it will be.

 

Let's take a look at the...

 

Benefits of Dog Socialization

A properly socialized puppy is not only well adjusted but is easy to get along with. He also makes a good companion. He doesn't get frightened by or become aggressive towards strangers.

 

Dogs that didn't go through socialization training are completely opposite.

They get into fights with other dogs, are difficult to train and often turn to fear-biting. 

 

Routine visits to a vet or a groomer become nightmarish. In short, they are just too unpleasant to be next to. Statistics also show that unsocialized dogs end up in shelters more often than the ones that went through puppy socialization training.

 

Puppy Socialization Tips...

  • While your puppy is still young, invite friends and relatives to meet him. Include men, women and children.
  • If you know people with friendly dogs, invite them over. But make sure that those dogs are up to date on their vaccinations.
  • Take your puppy to places where he will be exposed to people and pets. Places like parks, city streets and shopping malls.
  • Introduce your puppy to new sounds, but do it gradually. For example, leave your puppy in a living room and turn on a vacuum cleaner in some other room. When he becomes familiar with the sound, you can bring him into that room and let him explore the "monster" that makes that terrible noise!

 

Here are some things to avoid during puppy socialization...

 

  • Never reward fearful behavior. The same goes for puppy tantrums.
  • Socialization training should not introduce your puppy to fearful or unpleasant experiences.
  • Always encourage your puppy but never force him into anything he is not ready for.
  • Don't try to do too much at one time. Like any other training, puppy socialization will take time.

 

Puppy socialization is a very important step in the overall process of puppy training. What you do or don't do right now will affect your dog's behavior well into his adulthood. 

 

Mr Woofles is a dog boarding and dog daycare in Richmond, Melbourne, offering expert care with a strong focus on your dog’s individual happiness and overall wellbeing. Our dog daycare and dog boarding programs are focused on providing enrichment and enjoyment for your dogs in a healthy, safe and fun environment.