Introduction:

Did you know, socialization is the most important aspect of dog training? At least this is my opinion! Socialization is the first step to ensuring you have a well behaved dog in different environments. However, please realize environments is a broad/vague term for what we as trainers want dogs exposed to and it encompasses items such as sights, sounds, smells, etc. The more you expose your dog to, the more confident you and your dog will become! So, let's start this off with actual environments.

With that said, here are 6 reasons why you should start socializing today! 🐶🐶

1. Environment exposure.

Start your socialization off with exposing the dog to different environments such as parks, recreation areas, lakes, rivers, vehicles, and the list GOES ON! As a trainer, I want your dog to be comfortable anywhere you take them and I want you to be confident your dog will not have any adverse reactions to the environment.

2. Sounds.

Continuing down the list is sounds...sounds are tricky because dogs ears are far more sensitive than ours and we do not want them to become fearful over noises, especially those which are LOUD! However, we do want them exposed in small increments to the point they are confident. Just be aware while your puppy is developing, so are their ears...slow is smooth and smooth is fast.

3. Other dogs?!?!?!

Now, this next one is probably my favorite and where I see the most problems...socializing with other animals. Puppies need to have social play often and even more often as they start making the transition to adulthood. One thing you will experience are puppies & dogs play ROUGH and LOUD. Playing rough and loud is normal when dogs play and there is a distinct difference between play and aggression. However, many owners cause their dog to become aggressive by opting out of socializing with other animals the first time they perceive the dog being "Aggressive". This is the wrong thing to do, one must continue to reinforce good playing behaviors and correct the undesirable behaviors.

4. People.

Moving on to socializing with humans, is pretty much the same thing. Reinforce the desired behaviors and correct the undesirable. One thing to note: puppies are mouthy and bite often until they are done teething, which at this time should become MUCH more manageable.

5. Nose, knows.

Don't forget to encourage exposure to different smells as well...this is kinda a given but, it still must be said. Besides your dog will show you some sort of behavior change when they smell something they like...if they are always hunting with their nose, then they should be a good/great candidate for nose work (detection).

6. Have FUN!

Lastly & most importantly, have fun socializing your dog...this is a GREAT time to build your relationship and trust in one another. Again, this is not an all inclusive list but if you believe something needs to be added please do and give us some of that education! Enjoy FURRY FAMILY!