The term socialization refers to a period in a puppies life (beginning at three weeks of age, and ending at twelve weeks) where under the guidance of their mother (in the wild other members of the pack help with this), they become aware of the world around them. They explore safely, Mom guides them to make the right choices. They play, smell, touch, chew, explore their world, learn bite inhibition (not to bit too hard).  Please do not remove the a puppy from it's Mother/siblings too early as they will never learn this. If your puppy bites, say "Och", walk away and do not make a game out of it. It is now your job to be Mom and guide your dog.

 

Matching the right dog to the owner's home, activity level, environment, and personality is all very important. Talk to the shelter, rescue group or breeder about your life style.

 

1. Can you get the leash out? Or does your dog jump up, if so put the leash down and try again. This is about you taking the lead. Wait and try again in a few minutes. It might take ten or more times-but ask your dog to think (without speaking)! Willing cooperation is the name of the game.  

 

2. Start slowly, by watching the world go by with your friend. Little by little moving closer into the world. *Sit on your porch/by the door, have your dog on a leash and just hang out* Be a good role model and stay calm. How calm and relaxed are you both?

 

3. Walk to the end of the drive and back. How are you both?

 

4. Daily car rides are a great introduction to the world (When ready). A crate is the safest place to keep your dog in a car, but a new dog/puppy might not like a crate. Think about making the crate, a hang out/safe place for your dog. Place it in your living room and take the door off. (Please see using a crate/article about crates). If the car is an issue, just sit in the car and go no where. Start the car up and go no where. Baby steps, soon you will driving off. When ready drive on and off the drive way, then around the block. Inche your way out and build trust.

 

5. Go to low traffic areas (not many people or dogs), be happy and relaxed. Lots of hanging around/smelling the flowers, then take a few steps & changing direction. How do you feel? How does your dog look? Relaxed?

 

6. Build up slowly and if it goes wrong, go back to where you had it right and try again!

 

Please note, Some dog's personalities make socializing impossible in the short term, it can make their behavior worse and harm them. Putting a fearful/anxious puppy or dog in an overwhelming position, is unfair & unkind. Give them time.

 

Get to know your puppy/dog and give them gentle guidance in your home. Learning to walk in your home, then your back yard and on your driveway. Teaching the basics at home and earning your way out together. A start of a beautiful relationship.

 

Every dog is different, just as every child in a family is, by seeing this, we can give our dogs the right exposure at the right time.

 

 

Take your dogs out, when you are happy and relaxed. When they are ready, when they can trust you. 

 

Work with your dogs personality and you will have a wonderful relationship.

 

Louise Pay Dog Listener CA.

 

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