17 Mar Socializing Your Pup
You have done your research and found the perfect Pup for you. You set your house up with
crates and beds and bowls and bones and literal truck loads of toys for your newfound friend.
You charted the perfect potty schedule and got a bell for the door. You scoured brand after
brand until you found the food you thought was the best. You poured over reviews until you
settled on a trainer that you vibed with. You interviewed several Veterinarians and hired the
best one, but you are still missing something for your little four-legged bundle…socialization.
Socializing your Puppy is one of the best things you can do for them. They need all sorts of
socialization. Not just with other dogs, but with people and places as well. So, the big question
is when do you start this? There is much debate about the age that is appropriate for your Pup
to venture out into the world. Some say they must have all their vaccines, which would push
your Puppy close to 6 months old. On the other hand, there has been research done to show
that those first few months of your Pup’s life are crucial to their personality development and the
benefits far out way the possibility of your Pup contracting something. This does not mean that
if you start late there is no hope for your Pup. Plenty of older Pups, even several years old can
start this process, but if you can start from a young age than that would be the best option.
So, where to start? If you have a family member or friend with a friendly Pup, then a play date
with them is a great place to start. If not, then Doggie Daycare is a great option. Unlike dog
parks, daycares are monitored by knowledgeable staff and until your Pup is grown and you
have full grasp on their personality it is best to avoid dog parks. Pups are pack animals, so they
naturally like to be with other Pups, however there are always exceptions to the rule so please
listen to professionals when they give you recommendations. Dog trainers are also an option if
you feel like you need more guidance.
The other side of socialization is with people and places. Take your Pup for walks where things
are busy with people and noise. It doesn’t have to be for a long duration, just small intervals to
start. Make sure to give lots of treats to reward good behavior. Let people greet your Puppy so
they become comfortable with strangers, both adults and children. Make sure to let your Pup
walk on their own, regardless of their size. This will help them build their own confidence and
not rely on you for it. It’s also very important to get your Pup used to a groomer, especially if
they have a coat that will require regular haircuts. Taking them to a groomer at a young age,
even if they don’t need a full cut, just for a bath and to get used to the sounds will make all the
difference for your Pup as they grow up.
Socializing your Pup in all aspects of their life will help you have a very well-rounded Pup. They
will be more confident and comfortable in all your adventures together. This will build a stronger
bond between you which will result in better behavior. A Pup that is well-behaved is one that
you will want to take with you to more places and do more activities with, a true companion in life.
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