How to Socialize your Puppy

Exposure to new environments, places, people and pets is fundamental in allowing puppies to gain confidence and understand their place in the world. A well socialised dog has more predictable behavioural traits, which means you can feel confident in taking them outside to be around other pets and people safely. Moreover, well socialised dogs are more relaxed, which has a direct impact on your canine companion’s quality of life.

Dogs must have fun!

They need to feel comfortable, otherwise the experience could have the opposite effect of creating a fearful response towards foreign people and settings. So keep an eye on the puppies to take note of their reactions, and allow them to retreat to take a break if needed!

 

The earlier, the better!

Puppies are in the peak of their socialization period between 3 and 12 weeks of age, so try to have them experience as much as possible at a young age. Try to expose them to situations that they will likely experience in their adult life

 

The more, the merrier!

Puppies might feel at ease around kids or other dogs in places that are familiar to them, but not so in new places. To make them more adaptable to novel situations, they need to be constantly exposed to different settings. This way, they will generalize the experience and increasingly gain more confidence. A checklist of different activities and situations might be useful for you to make sure your puppy is not missing out on having a variety of life experiences

 

Use treats!

To make every interaction a happy one, give your puppies treats. This will allow them to retain positive and happy impressions after the socialization period is completed

 

Join Mad Paw’s Dog Walking or Pet Daycare!

They will be in safe and trusted hands, enjoying their time with other dogs and making new friends in a new and comfortable environment. Find out more at Mad Paws!