Socializing Your Puppy
Socializing refers to providing your dog with POSITIVE experiences with NEW THINGS. The best way to make sure your dog has great experience is to include things he loves- like food or toys.
New People
Let your dog approach at his own pace, if and when he wants to.
Associate new people with wonderful things (think bacon!)
Make sure puppies are gently and positively exposed to different people. Examples include babies, children, seniors, men with beards, people carrying and wearing different things, people of different ethnicities, people in wheelchairs and with strollers.
Other Animals
Always check that the other animal is friendly and tolerant of other dogs before you let your dog approach.
Teach your dog how to act politely around other animals by rewarding him for good behavior. Redirect him if he is too pushy or excited.
If your adult dog doesn't want to play with other dogs, that's okay. Adult people don't want to hang out with every other person we meet either!
New Things & Environments
To prevent noise phobia (fear of thunder etc.) feed your dog a high value treat every time the noise happens.
Introduce young dogs to lots of different surfaces. Try gravel, carpet, tile floors, concrete, bridges, plastic, rubber, snow, sand, grass etc.
Takes rides in a boat, train, car or elevator.
Visit the vet and groomer just for treats and petting to associate these places with good things!
Teach your dog to enjoy wearing a muzzle by making it a treat basket.
Avoid truly scary situations such as fireworks.
Remember, exposure alone isn't socialization! If your dog isn't having a great time, you could be doing more harm than good. Dogs don't just "get over" issues by themselves, so if your dog is shy, worried, or overly excited, leave the situation and work with a professional who can help both of you. If your dog is having a blast and is happy and comfortable-you are doing a great job of socializing him!
Puppy Socialization Checklist
