How to Get Your New Dog Socialized

Socialization is very important for your dog especially if you want them to be good polite members of the community.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A puppy or adult dog.
• Other friendly dogs or other animals
• Spare time
• Other people to come to your home or that will allow your pet into their home.

1. 
    
   Scooter at 12 weeks old

   Now assuming that your dog is a puppy and has all of the necessary shots it is important to start socializing them as soon as possible.
   One of the best ways to do this is to make "play dates" with other dogs. A play date for a dog is almost the same as play dates for children. You and a friend meet at one or the others house and bring your pets. The dogs play while you visit.

2. 
    
   Sadie and Oakley Playing in yard

   If your new dog IS NOT a puppy, the same things apply with a little adjustment. With adult dogs, especially males it is better if they have been neutered since it seems to lower the desire to dominate and fight. When introducing the dogs make sure it is on neutral ground such as a walk or in a part of the yard that they may not consider to be their "space". After the initial meeting has taken place and everything goes smoothly, you will want to make this a regular "treat" for them to have play dates with other canine and feline friends.

3. You should also get your dog used to as many people as possible. You can do this by letting them hang out with you when friends come over. Take them to friends homes to visit (as long as your friend agrees). If you work in a place that has a "Bring your pet to work day" be sure to take yours! The more people, places and animals that they come into contact with the more comfortable they will become. In the end you will have a very happy, social pet :)

4. If your dog is pretty well socialized then you may want to take them to a dog park if you have one in your area. There they can get exercise and interact with other dogs and other people. Most dog parks have large fences, watering areas and some even have small obstacle courses for your pet to go thru.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep an eye on the dogs while playing until they get used to each other.
• If you see any signs of tension, separates the dogs immediately!!!
• With ADULT DOGS you should be sure that both adult dogs have been exercised in some form such as walking for at least 30 to 60 minutes before the first meeting.
• This will get rid of some of the pent up energy and possibly avoid a fight!
• Just be aware of the body signals that the dogs are giving to avoid any type of conflict or injury to either the animals or yourself!!
• DOGS THAT ARE NOT SOCIALIZED TEND TO BE MORE FEARFUL AND OR AGGESSIVE, WHICH MAY LEAD TO BITING!