The Importance of Socializing Dogs

Just like people, the personalities of dogs can vary. They can be very hyper, friendly, shy, or aggressive. Some dogs can be a combination of personality types. These personality differences may be determined by breed or the dog’s individual genetics, but, for the most part, their personality is determined by how and to what extent the dog has been socialized.

But first, what is socialization?

To put it as simple as possible, it is the process in which dogs learn to relate to other dogs, people, and other animals. You know that the relationship you have with your dog is based on your exposure to each other and whether or not that exposure has been positive or negative. The same principle extends past your relationship and to the relationship that the dog has with others.

Start Socializing at Home

Socialization always begins at home at a young age, as puppies that are between the ages of three and twelve weeks are going to be sensitive to socialization. This means that any positive contacts that the puppy has during this period will make a good impression on them. The one issue, however, is that the outside world is still quite dangerous for a dog this young. His immunizations have just started and he is not as resistant to infections as he will be when he is older. It is for this reason that your pup shouldn’t necessarily be exposed to other dogs other than any you already have at home. They need to be in a protected environment, which essentially means your pup should remain at home.

Socialization with humans at this young age is not really an issue, nonetheless. People can touch, hold, pet, play with, and speak to your young pup in a friendly voice. Make sure that anyone who visits your home greets your dog in a friendly manner or they simply stay away completely if they don’t wish to do so.

Puppy Training

At around three months old, your puppy should be ready to leave the house for training and to meet other dogs. It is highly recommended to take your puppy to a training school so that your dog can be taught how to behave and how to relate to other dogs. Puppy class will teach your pup to treat other dogs as friends rather than adversaries. Training also helps your relationship with your dog, as well as your dog’s relationship with others. They can learn not to bite during play, not to jump on people out of excitement, and to understand commands that will make everyone’s life easier.

Continuing the Socialization Process

It is very important to continue socializing your dog, as doing so will ensure they are on their best behavior at all stages of their life. Dogs enter certain life periods when fearful or hostile behavior can manifest itself, even if they have been socialized before adulthood. Adolescence is a difficult age, so having them socialized before this period can help a lot. Just like human teenagers, dogs can go through personality changes, which can involve becoming aggressive. Puppy class is a good first step to helping your dog be on their best behavior.