Our dogs are a part of our family. We pamper them with favorite toys and pedicures, so sometimes it is easy to forget that they are not human. It is vital to the health of your dogs physical and emotional state to remember that dogs must be treated as dogs. This means they must have to opportunity to hang out with their own kind.
Many times we bring home a puppy and the new family member never gets acquainted with anyone outside the family, other than visits to the vet and groomer, which aren’t usually the highlight of a doggy day. While our pet may meet and get along with our friends who come to visit, she needs four-legged friends of her own and even if you have more than one dog she needs to socialize outside the house.
Why? Because chances are good that at sometime in her life she will have the opportunity to be around other dogs and it’s much easier on her and you if she recognizes them as potential playmates and friends, rather than fearing them and possibly reacting aggressively.
Socializing a puppy is easy, although you should wait until she’s completed her puppy vaccines, including rabies, before taking her out into the world. A young puppy may get overly excited at the prospect of making a new friend and her playful nature can go too far. The puppy is still too young discern the difference between our acquaitances and total strangers.
If your community has one, a dog park is the best place to introduce your puppy to the world. Many dog parks have separate areas for puppies or small dogs. This is also a good opportunity for you to talk to other puppy enthusiasts to find out if their dog is interested in making friends. But also remember to play the field if the first connection goes sour, there are other dogs in the park. If your dog makes a special new friend in the park, then chat with the owner about scheduling time for the pups to play.
Alternatives to a dog park are walking trails, or even visiting a pet store that welcomes canine shoppers. But regardless of the venue, don’t leave the leash at home. Some dogs don’t take kindly to the leash, although pups tend to be more accepting. Although it’s tempting to rush in for a pet, always ask permission before going up to another person’s dog.
The same general rules apply to an older dog, although if your dog shows anxiety or fear, or reacts aggressively to the approach of a strange dog, then a busy dog park might not be the best option. You might be better off trying a canine day care center or kennel that can offer supervised social interactions for Rover. Look for a center that can train your dog to get over his apprehension. In extreme cases a trainer or dog behaviorist may be needed, but socializing your dog is worth the effort.
You will discover that this extra effort will pay big dividends when your dog is in the presence of others. This is a must if you plan to bring home another puppy, ensuring that the new member of your family is welcomed by all.
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