How to Socialize Your Puppy?

Since puppy time in the most critical time in a dog's growth, they need to be properly socialized so that the dog's behavior is not left to chance.

When a dog has been properly socialized, they are great companions and a joy to own. They are generally friendly towards anyone they meet, and never display aggressive behavior in normal situations. However, puppies that have not been socialized will often bite and act aggressively out of fear. They can be extremely difficult to train, and all in all are most unpleasant. They have a hard time trying to adapt to situations that aren't known to them, and simple things like vet visits can be a horrifying experience.

As soon as you bring your dog home, it is time for you to begin to socialize your new puppy. This continues for a very long time in order for your puppy to be well rounded and happy. It is easiest for puppies to be socialized before they are three months old. If the puppy is older than that, it becomes exceedingly difficult for your dog to be well socialized and requires tons of time, energy, and patience. What to do to socialize your puppy:

1. Be sure that when you are socializing your puppy, each and every experience is calm and not threatening. You have to be sure that your puppy's first experiences are fun and happy, or else you are doing this for nothing. This will cause your dog to grow a phobia against socialization that might never be overcome. It works best when you take your time and slowly get your puppy accustomed to socialization, rather than try to rush your puppy into accepting new things.

2. Give your pup a wide variety of people and animals to meet. Invite over people that are young, old, and in between. Be sure that you have women, men, and people of different ethnicities as well.

3. Be sure to invite over other dogs that are healthy and vaccinated so that they can interact with your puppy. You can also have cats over so that your dog can get used to playing with them. Go on visits to people's houses that have pets such as these.

4. Make sure that you take your pup for rides on the car, but don't let them stick their head out of the window. They could be hit by a flying rock, and get hurt.

5. Don't be afraid to let your dog explore safely in your home. Show them what different items are, including a vacuum cleaner.

6. Let puppy get used to his collar, leash, and anything else you want your pup to become used to in his environment.

7.Avoid allowing you pup to become frightened, or hurt during this time, or else the puppy could have a phobia that will last forever.

Socializing your puppy is needed for his proper behavior and growth. This must be done in a calm way to insure that the puppy never fears new things, but embraces them.

Submitted By: Kelly Marshall