Things You'll Need:
- Treats
- Collar and leash (for dogs)
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Step 1
Allow your pet time to feel comfortable with his immediate family and his new home before bringing friends and family into the mix. Start small by introducing a few friends to your pet in your own home.
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Step 2
Allow the pet to approach strangers on her own terms. Your guest should avoid approaching the animal initially, as this can be seen as threatening. Use treats to reward your pet when he greets guests appropriately.
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Step 3
Introduce your pet to adult friends and family members before allowing your pet to interact with children. A child's sudden movement, shorter height and higher voice can intimidate and threaten an animal. Supervise the first few interactions between your pet and unfamiliar children.
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Step 4
Give your pet a little breathing room when new people are around. Designate a haven where your pet can enjoy some alone time. This will allow your animal room to retreat if she begins to feel uncomfortable or threatened.
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Step 5
Expose your pet to new environments only after it is obvious that he feels comfortable around people in his own home. For the first trip, find a large, open park where he can experience new smells, sights and sounds in a relaxed environment.
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Step 6
Control your pet on a leash when outside and use basic commands to keep her obedient. This will also help your pet feel secure. Always use a collar and leash when introducing dogs to new people. A controlled hold on the dog will help train him on the appropriate way to greet someone.
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Step 7
Take treats with you on each outing and reward your pet for good behavior as you did in your home.
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Step 8
Repeat these introductions frequently for your pet to become comfortable and friendly with strangers. Frequent exposure and rewards for good behavior are vital to having a friendly, socialized pet.
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Step 9
Don't use calming words if your animal starts to show signs of aggression such as growling or hissing during an encounter. This tends to reinforce the unwanted behavior because your pet misinterprets your tone as signifying approval. Instead, simply remove him from the environment.
