Joan the Dog Coach
By Joan Hunter Mayer
Welcome back, inquisitive pet parents! From Part One, you might recall what puppy socialization is (opportunities to have lots of wonderful experiences in various environments), why it’s important (a more confident dog is more comfortable and less likely to develop issues related to fear and aggression), and how it is best approached (pair new experiences with things your pup loves, avoid forcing puppies into scary situations, and know when to slow things down or take a break). Now, let’s move on to the next step.
Puppy Socialization Guide
With the fundamentals of animal learning and communication in mind (from our previous post), create a list of situations you want your pup to be a part of, both as a younger puppy as well as an adult dog. Be thorough – and the more details, the better. The following tips can be a guide for helping your puppy learn about new dogs and other animals, people, locations, surfaces, objects, and sounds:
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Other dogs: Classes and playdates with friends or family members that have puppies and adult dogs can be a great way for your dog to learn appropriate doggie play skills and make friends. Just make sure they are safe and friendly environments. An unforeseen incident can be traumatic to a young pup. And to you.
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Other animals: Think about who your puppy will see each week, currently and as an adult. If that list might include kittens, cats, birds, horses, livestock, or other household pets, add them to the checklist.
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People: Prepare for a wide variety of social situations. For instance, do you often have company? Is your household filled with children? Or no kids at all now, but maybe kids later on? If your goal is a happy, well-adjusted family pet, help your puppy create positive associations with people of all ages, genders, sizes, and ethnicities. Without overwhelming your pup, also include people who are uniformed, costumed, carrying objects, jogging, etc.
When meeting new people, it’s best to allow your puppy to approach the person, versus someone approaching your pup, encroaching on their space. Allow dogs to have control over their own behavior and environment. If they appear a little hesitant, but still curious, you can have the person toss a small piece of a high value treat, creating a trail of trust.
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Locations: Will you be taking your dog to work? On vacations? Walks in new places? Beaches (once your pup is cleared by your vet), parks, and the mountains? Country life now but maybe a big city in a few years (or the reverse)? Prepare your puppy accordingly. Other locations to think about include: the veterinarian’s office, the groomer, riding in cars, friends’ houses, and outdoor cafes.
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Surfaces: Will your pup need to walk or go potty on soft grass for now, but maybe someday concrete? Consider also acclimating your puppy to the feel of: wet grass, tile, gravel, sand, stairs, and the bathtub.
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Objects: Think about items of “clothing” (harness, muzzle, sweater, etc.), as well as moving objects – anything and everything with wheels (including suitcases).
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Sounds: When habituating pets to everyday noises, such as the stereo, TV, hair dryer, vacuum (and other appliances), car horns, the garage door opening, alarms, and the doorbell, start slowly, and build slowly. Remember the aim is to help your dog create new, positive associations, while avoiding any level of intensity that is unpleasant or triggering.
And finally, my number one pro tip for teaching your puppy about the world is to build a trusting bond. Develop the best possible relationship with your dog. Be prepared to take on life’s challenges as a team and reward your inquisitive pup for being brave when taking steps to do and try new things. Ultimately, all you’re asking your puppy to do is to enjoy life. Let’s make it a great one!
The Inquisitive Canine was founded by Santa Barbara certified canine behavior consultant and certified professional dog trainer Joan Hunter Mayer. Joan and her team are devoted to offering humane, pawsitive, practical solutions that work for the challenges dogs and their humans face in everyday life. Joan offers coaching both in-person and online. If you are feeling inquisitive and have dog training questions, we invite you to contact The Inquisitive Canine for A Pawsitive Approach for Positive Results ™.
