Puppy Socialization: Introduce Your Dog To The World

Socialize your puppy to a leash early on

Introduce Your Puppy To New Experiences

New puppies soak up information and experiences like a sponge – especially those between the ages of 8 to 12 weeks. This is the ideal time to get your pup out into the open and absorbing positive experiences to help with his socialization.

Many people think that puppies need to learn how to deal with situations on their own. However, you should be very aware of what type of situations you are putting your puppy in. When they are young, it is best to make each and every experience as positive as possible. Do not introduce your puppy to dogs who are socially inappropriate or children who will harshly pull the puppy’s tail. This could create a fear in your puppy that lasts a lifetime.

Socialize your puppy with socially appropriate dogsSay Hello To The Neighbors

Your neighbors and friends are all dying to meet your new precocious pooch. By all means, take your puppy for a walk around the neighborhood. He’ll learn to walk on a loose leash and run into new people and situations. The faster you can introduce your puppy to leash walking the better.

Ask people you meet to gently pet and feed a treat to your pup. Limit interactions to cordial children, good-natured dogs, and responsible adults. It teaches the pup that strangers are good people.

Be careful, though. Until your pup’s immune system has been cranked up by his third set of vaccinations (at 16 to 20 weeks) he’ll be vulnerable to diseases, some potentially deadly.

Another great way to expand your puppy’s circle of friends without making a big scene is to invite a few select dog-savvy adults and children over to greet your puppy. Keep everything low-key and nurturing – no running, squealing, teasing, tussling or poking. Provide treats liberally.

Socialize your dog into the worldField Trips Are Great

From the time you get your puppy until he’s about 16 weeks old, socialization is a high priority. Socialization simply means introducing your puppy to new people, places, experiences and other dogs in a positive way. Well-socialized pups grow up to be happy, well-mannered adults.

Keep in mind that your pup’s sociability and outlook depend on a lot of factors. For instance, recent worming or vaccinations, teething and a recent, long airplane flight can make your pup tired and grumpy. Exposing your pup to too much at these times can cause him to be overwhelmed and taxed rather than enriched by the experience.

Take your puppy to places where dogs are welcome (don’t forget to bring your cleanup supplies). Try to do five to seven new things each week, like experience stairs, bicycles, people with facial hair or glasses, garbage cans, loud noises, new walking surfaces and work trucks, etc. It’s also a great time to introduce your pup to a grooming routine.

And even when your puppy is older than 16 weeks, it’s still a good idea to continue to actively socialize him until he reaches 12 months of age.

Puppy classes are a great way to socialize your puppy to other people and dogs in a controlled setting, as well as begin teaching the basics of obedience. At Highland Canine Training LLC, we offer all types of training classes to set your puppy off on the right track and continue on the right track once he is grown. For any inquiries you may have, call us at 1.866.200.2207 or email us at training@highlandcanine.com