Dog socialization is accomplished by introducing your dog to various new environments, people, animals, and stimuli. And the earlier, the better. The idea is to get your dog exposed to all different types of sights, smells, and sounds as a puppy. This exposure early on will help prevent your dog from reacting negatively later to simulation experiences. The socialization process should begin as early as 3-8 weeks of age.
The best way to teach your puppy how to properly behave is by exposing him to other well-behaved dogs. One great way to socialize your puppy in a controlled environment is by enrolling them in structured group walks. In well structured group walks, your puppy will observe the behaviors and reactions of other well adjusted adult dogs. Here are 3 important reasons why you should properly socialize your puppy.
1. Improved Ability To Cope With Different Situations
Dog socialization means introducing your dog to the smells, sounds, and sights of everyday life. It is important to stimulate and engage his senses. The more often your dog comes across new situations and new people, the more comfortably he will be able to handle them. Thus, proper socialization will teach your dog how to behave and display behavior that is socially acceptable. This means learning how to interact and behave calmly around diverse people. For example, your dog should be exposed to people of different heights, weights, skin colors, and types of dress. Under socialized dogs may lunge at people walking, bark, or show other signs of aggression. In addition, listening to obedience commands will be easier for your dog if he is properly socialized.
Living in a busy city like New York City, your dog needs to adapt to city noises. Noises of cars, buses, subways, and people on busy streets are examples of sounds your dog will need to become adjusted to. For example, if you live in Astoria near an above ground subway, your dog should be comfortable walking underneath the tracks. And if you want your dog to accompany you to restaurants, he must be at ease with the sidewalk traffic. Hence, proper socialization will allow you and your puppy to spend more quality time together outside of your home for the rest of his life.
2. Less Likely To Have Psychological Problems
Dogs that aren’t properly socialized are more likely to develop psychological health issues. Separation anxiety, depression, and fearfulness are signs that your dog needs socialization training. Teaching your dog social skills from an early age will help him nurture good behaviors. In addition, proper socialization will ensure that new situations won’t be stressful for your pup in the future. Appropriate socialization will help your dog be confident and psychologically strong. A properly socialized dog will be comfortable around familiar, strange, and new people, animals, or situations.
3. Dog Socialization Provides Better Control Over Emotions
Poorly socialized dogs have the least amount of control over their emotions. They may show fearful aggression towards other pets and people. For example, when introduced to unfamiliar situations, a poorly socialized pup might run away out of fear or get overwhelmed out of curiosity. This is not desirable for you or your dog. Instead, you want to gradually introduce your puppy to new people, pets, and places. Your dog will grow in confidence when he is taught good social skills. If your pup is older and you are struggling with socialization, you can always reach out to a professional Dog Trainer for help and guidance.
Lack of understanding of the importance of socialization in dog parents is common. It can result in their dog not being able to cope with new people and situations appropriately. Unfortunately, it can even lead to the dog developing anxiety, aggression, or depression. Dog socialization is one of the most important things to teach your puppy when training him. A dog with good social skills that understands how interaction in our society will live a happier and healthier life. In addition, it will also make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Buster and Whiskers is a Dog Walking Service that specializes in structured group dog socialization walks in Astoria, NY. We offer affordable and quality Dog Walking Services, Dog Training Services, and Dog Hiking Services in Astoria, Queens, NY. Contact us if you need a reliable and professional Dog Walker here in Astoria.
