Socialising your puppy

Being a responsible puppy parent should involve teaching your new bundle of fur social skills. After all, a sociable puppy is a happy and playful pup.

14 Feb 2016 By Zahra Gaitskell Comments

An important part of your puppy’s development is getting him or her used to people and other pets. If you don't socialise your fur baby, they may find it hard to adjust in new and different situations. This can lead to behaviours like aggression and being overly territorial, especially around strangers, other dogs, food and their family members.

A socialised puppy is happy, well-adjusted and adaptable, not to mention a whole lot of fun.

Socialising isn't just about spending time with other dogs and animals, at first it's about spending time with you and your family. This means quality time bonding, cuddling and touching, walking and playing, washing and feeding. Your puppy needs to feel secure and loved in their relationship with you and comfortable with the world around them.

Your house, even just your living room, may be daunting for your dog when they first get home; socialising your puppy is about getting them used to their environment and home and the role of each person in the family. Give your puppy time to explore with you and on their own and encourage them to feel confident and you'll soon have a happy and playful pup, comfortable in their surroundings.

When your puppy is comfortable at home it's time to start venturing beyond it, repeating the same actions in new environments and with new people.

Start introducing new people and animals, if you have another dog or pet now is the time to make them acquainted! This means short bursts at first giving each their own space, and making the visits longer and less supervised when they seem comfortable with each other.

Puppies can really benefit from things like Puppy School and Obedience Training, it gives them a chance to meet and socialise with a variety of other animals and people in a stimulating environment and helps build their confidence and charisma outside of the home.

Don't forget situations outside the ordinary like a visit to the vet, which can cause stress and a bit of discomfort. Prepare your dog early by getting them used to car journeys, being picked up by strangers, touched all over and especially having fingers around their mouth and face. 

Take your puppy on little trips car trips, make crowds and places with loud noises a normal part of life. It will make it much easier for you down the line if your dog knows not to bite the poor vet who is just trying to clean its teeth or give a vaccination.

Important points when socialising your dog

  • Focus on helping your puppy to feel happy and positive in a range of situations;
  • Start your social skills training in the comfort of home, only progressing when your pup is showing confidence in its home surroundings;
  • Use lots of praise and pats to show assurance and love;
  • Contact your local Puppy School of Dog Obedience Training

By ensuring your puppy feels positive and confident in a range of situations and environments you are helping it to flourish and grow into an adaptable and well-mannered dog. Happy dog—happy owner!

 

14 Feb 2016 By Zahra Gaitskell Comments

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