How to Properly Socialize a Puppy

Introduction

Dogs are very social animals. When you raise a puppy you have a short window of opportunity to socialize your puppy around other dogs and people. The more socialized your dog is, the more stable your dog will be as an adult. Do everything you can to socialize your puppy. You'll be glad that you did. A properly socialized dog is easier to train, easier to handle and will have a less of a chance of becoming aggressive.

By: Eric Letendre

Length: 2:27

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Instructions

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Tips & Warnings:

Start socializing your puppy as soon as possible.
Socialize with other puppies and people.
Make all interactions as positive as possible.
Don't coddle your puppy when she seems scared or nervous.
Don't let your puppy interact with dogs that you don't know.

Step1

Attending a puppy class is a great thing to do with your new puppy. A good puppy class will have puppies around the same age and allow them to play off-leash. The critical socialization period happens between the ages of 8 weeks and 4 1/2 months. That is the time to expose your puppy to as many sights, sounds, dogs, people and places as possible. A group puppy class is a great place to start.

Step2

Have friends and family help you socialize your puppy. Keep interactions between people and other dogs positive. Have your friends and family help you with this. Have them play with your puppy and give him treats. This is how your puppy starts to make positive associations with people.

Step3

Bring your puppy to many different places. Bring your dog hiking in the woods, to the beach, to your friend's house. Also bring your puppy to places that are a little more busy like the city or a busy shopping area. Remember, we don't want to overwhelm your puppy, but we do want to expose your puppy to as much as we can.

Step4

Bring your puppy to the vet's office and a pet groomer. Go even when you don't have an appointment. Bring your puppy into the vet's office and have the staff give your puppy a hug and a treat. Also do this at your groomer. Call and ask first. Many groomers and vets are busy. Try to set up a time that is not as busy.

Step5

Bring your puppy to the vet's office. Don't coddle your puppy when she seems scared. If your puppy becomes scared of a sound or sight, act very matter-of-factly. If you scoop your puppy up every time he seems scared or nervous, you are reinforcing his fears, and over time, your puppy will become more and more fearful.

Step6

Puppy daycare has become very popular over the past 10 years. It is a good activity for your puppy. If there are any in your area, stop in and ask to observe.