The Dos
Start Early
Almost every canine expert will suggest you start early when it comes to socializing dogs. Almost all dogs get increasingly stubborn as they grow older. Some breeds are inherently stubborn from the beginning. The later you start training your pet, the more difficult it becomes for you. Do not wait for too long to train your puppy after bringing it home. The minds of younger puppies are malleable and can be molded the way you want.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Always socialize with your puppy using positive reinforcement. This is a training method that involves rewarding your pooch when they follow your command. Whether you ask your pet to perform an action or refrain from performing an action, it will be rewarded with its favorite treat. After a few repetitions, your furry friend will no longer need the treat. Positive reinforcement is a harmless and effective way to provide any kind of training to your pup.
Ensure Gradual Exposure
Do not expose your puppy to new people, surroundings, and animals all of a sudden. This may throw it off-guard, making it rely on its aggressive instincts. Instead, go for gradual exposure. Slowly, while training your furry friend, make it meet different people and spend time with them. Ensure that the people your pet meets show them love.
Variety Is Preferred
Do not let your pet meet the same people every day to socialize it. Variety is important for your pet’s holistic socialization. Make it meet different people and animals. Take it to different settings to make it familiar with everything.
Observe Body Language
As you provide socialization training to your puppy, observe its body language. Not all training methods are suitable for all breeds. If you can see your pet become visibly uncomfortable or aggressive, stop the session and change your approach immediately. Ultimately, your puppy’s comfort matters more than anything else while socializing it.
Stay Calm
Some breeds may take longer to train than others. Never lose your temper while socializing your furry friend. Always stay calm and composed throughout the training sessions.
The Don’ts
Never Overwhelm Your Pet
Take things slow while socializing dogs. Do not overwhelm your puppy by exposing it to a lot of people at once. Such conditions may not only delay socialization but also make it backfire.
Refrain From Force
If you see your puppy get uncomfortable during a training session, do not force it into performing specific actions. Work your way around to make your furry friend obey you and get used to new people or surroundings. Forcing your pet may make it aggressive instead of social.
Avoid Negative Techniques
Always stay away from negative training techniques like punishment. You wouldn’t want to scare your puppy into obeying you. Moreover, excessive punishment can turn your pet against you. Always stick to positive reinforcement to get the best results.
Do Not Ignore Stress Signs
Be mindful of your puppy’s mental health while socializing it. Notice signs of stress or exhaustion and do not push your furry friend too far. Breeds like Pugs and English Bulldogs experience overheating issues when they get too worked up. Parents of such breeds should be extra careful while socializing them (or giving them any kind of training).
Never Be Inconsistent
Consistency is the key to socializing dogs. Some breeds may take a little longer to follow your commands. This should not demotivate you to put unnecessary breaks in your training sessions. Stay consistent in your approach and have the patience required to socialize your furry friend. If you still find it difficult, you can always hire a professional trainer.
Don’t Overlook Safety
Come what may, always train your puppy in a safe and controlled environment. Your furry friend’s safety should matter the most while socializing it. Even if it takes longer, do not put your pet under unsafe circumstances just to make it obey your commands.
Avoid Lack Of Supervision
Do not leave your pet alone and devoid of adult supervision while socializing it. If your puppy is not yet socialized, it may either harm itself or cause harm to others. If you take your furry friend out, keep it on a leash. Some breeds like Pomeranians should also be kept away from larger dogs. Their Small Dog Syndrome can persuade them to challenge larger dogs, putting their own lives in danger.
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If you are ready to become a responsible pet parent, Best For Pets will help you buy the best puppy for you and your loved ones. We are a team of skilled, experienced, and ethical dog breeders in India. Along with selling you healthy puppies, we will also give you valuable advice on matters like socialization and obedience training. If needed, we will also connect you with some of the best dog trainers in your town depending on the breed you purchase. With Best For Pets, you are bound to become a loving, caring, and informed parent to your furry friend.