Thinking about getting a puppy, or maybe you've just added a new pup to the family? Read our blog to give them the best start in life.
Canine socialisation is a necessary, lifelong process in which dogs learn to bond with other dogs, other humans, and other species. However, socialisation does not only involve these relationships, but also contact with the most varied types of noises, environments and objects.
Puppies do tend to start life on the 'super dog social' end of the spectrum, but this changes as they mature and it can be hard for us to understand why our puppy who once loved absolutely everyone, is now less keen to meet all the other dogs. People often start to worry when their puppy stops showing so much interest in dogs, thinking it's almost rude and offensive if they don't engage in play with another dog. But actually, this is perfectly normal and often very polite dog behaviour.
Dog tolerance levels will change with age and experience, but there will also be genetic influences which no amount of socialisation, training or experience will be able to make a significant impact on. This is why not every dog will necessarily be friendly with all dogs or display perfect social skills.
Without proper socialisation, dogs can become anxious and fearful of anything unfamiliar. This can give rise to serious behavioral problems such as aggression or nervous behaviour.
Dogs can be socialised at any time in their life, but it is most important when they are between 8 weeks and 4 months old. … Dog socialisation includes making your dog stress-free with a variety of people and different environments and circumstances.
How should you introduce your dog to other dogs?
Start in a calm, neutral environment. …
Use a familiar, well-behaved dog. …
Go slow at first. …
Use plenty of positive reinforcement. …
Never use tight collars or separate dogs. …
Repeat the process as many times as necessary.
or should you introduce your dog to other dogs?
Repeat the process as many times as necessary.
What should my puppy socialise with? With other people like postmen, people wearing glasses/hats, other animals, different environments, in and around transport, being alone with strangers, dog day care, happy to be handled. Puppies need to be familiarised with sounds, hairdryers, vacuum cleaners, doorbell, firework and so many other things.
Socializing your dog is extremely important for their cognitive development and to make them feel safer and happier to the world