Proper Socialization Technique
So you want to know how to properly socialize your puppy. Before we start it is important to know that socialization is the act of creating positive associations to anything and everything she will experience during her life. We do this by letting her set the pace, never forcing her to do anything she does not want to. From trips to the vet to walks around the neighborhood to the sound of your fire alarm, creating enjoyable experiences will help your puppy gain the confidence to become a well-balanced dog.
Envision your Future - Take a moment to envision how your puppy, as an adult, will fit into your life. Will you take him camping, bring him to the groomer, or make morning school or coffee runs with him? Anything you think of that will be a part of your life together should be on your list to start socializing him to now.
Break it Down - Break down these visions into small socialization experiences. Socialization experiences could be as simple as exploring a new surface in your home such as carpet or tile flooring, listening to a recorded quiet sound of fireworks or trucks, or exploring a new environment such as a short hiking trail or trip to the beach. Every day you should help her explore the world by organizing at least three small socialization experiences.
Set Him up For Success - During these socialization experiences you want to set your puppy up to have an amazing time. You want him thinking, ‘That was so much fun! I can’t wait to do it again!’ when you have finished. Start off easy. You can use food and play to help him learn to look forward to these events.
Evaluate - Evaluate her body language. Is she having a great time, is she just ok, or is she fearful? If she’s just ok, take it up a notch by bringing out her favorite food or toy. If she’s having a great time, awesome! Enjoy the moment. End the experience while she’s still having fun.
Problem Solve - If your puppy is showing fearful body language you need to reassess the situation and problem solve. Should you stop immediately and try again at another time or can you quickly find a way to help him have a great time? It is often beneficial to break your socialization experience into the smallest steps possible, reducing the intensity of the “scary” event. This might look like moving further away from the “scary” event until your puppy is no longer showing fearful body language. Feed or play with him to help him relax at this new further distance. When he is comfortable choose to either gradually move closer to the “scary” event, building back to the original intensity, or ending the experience there. Keep in mind, you want him to trust you. It is difficult to develop trust if you are being forced to do activites you do not want to engage in.
Puppies differ greatly depending on age, breed, and history. What one puppy might find extremely easy another might find very difficult. If your puppy is struggling with any socialization experience please do not hesitate to contact us for a more personalized training program.
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