| Socialization is basically the very
lengthy (life-long) desensitization process of
exposing your puppy to every new sound, sight, and
situation possible. To eliminate any adverse
reaction and have your dog view these occurrences as
normal, and non-threatening, and non-exciting.
The ultimate goal of socialization is to be able to
take your dog any place, any situation, and have him
stay calm, relaxed and confident. Over-excitement,
anxiety, hyperactivity are all unwanted reactions in
a properly socialized dog. It can be done, but this
desensitization process does not have an ending, it
is something that must be continued every day of
your dog's life.
Before that scares you, I'd like you to note that it
really is not as hard, or time-consuming as one
might think. This is an essential part of
responsible dog ownership and every dog should be
socialized extensively.
- A well socialized dog can be taken
everywhere (allowable by law/regulations). Under
socialized dogs are hazards in more ways than
just knocking somebody down through
over-exuberance. A poorly socialized dog is an
unpredictable animal when placed in a new,
potentially frightening situation. He may bite,
he may run away and be injured. He may cause
injuries to others around him.
- A poorly socialized reflects badly on dog
owners everywhere, and due to just such an
image, many dog owners are penalized by
restrictive laws and limits. One bad owner WILL
spoil the whole bunch. Do YOUR part and properly
socialize your dog!
How to Socialize: The very first
step, regardless of whether your dog is a puppy
newly vaccinated, or an adult dog you've acquired,
is enrolling in obedience classes that focus on
positive training methods. These classes benefit
dogs at any age, and are an important step in
socialization and developing a bond between dog and
you, the handler.
The Next Step: Arm yourself with
treats, and off you go. Take your dog out to walk
the streets, let him experience cars driving by
(safely on leash, of course), people walking past,
and the noises of everyday life. Praise and reward
any wanted reaction (such as sniffing, walking
calmly, sitting politely) and ignore all undesirable
reactions (jumping, leash pulling, barking, showing
fear), while redirecting attention to yourself, and
have him focus on something different.
It is very important to remember to praise and
reward as soon as the unwanted behavior stops, but
also be very careful to not accidentally reward the
unwanted as well.
Take your dog with you everywhere. The ultimate goal
of socialization is to have a dog you can take into
any awkward, noisy, or crowded area, and he will
still behave, and be calm, and relaxed. By
continuing this throughout his life, your dog will
gain confidence, and keep a steady head wherever he
is. |
