When we welcome a new pup into our home, our instincts tell us to safeguard and completely secure the dog. However, we must expose our puppies to as many common scenarios as possible within their first three months. During this period, pups are most receptive to learning, which affects their personality. Socialization’s benefits vastly outweigh the time commitment. Frequently, puppies who have not been appropriately socialized can be violent and fearful of humans or their environment.
How to get started in puppy socialization?
Pups between the ages of 8 and 12 weeks are frequently adopted. Each puppy is unique in terms of psychological and behavioral health, and some will be more advanced than others when it comes to exposure and socialization. When you bring your puppy home, focus on the following socializing areas to help them grow into happy, healthy dogs:
Exposure To Other Pets
Puppies gain exposure to other dogs, cats, pocket pets, and birds in a controlled environment.
Handling
Touching, inspecting the ears, examining the mouth, touching the feet, cutting nails, bathing, leashing/harnessing/wrapping, restraining (with positive reinforcement), playing with toys, and brushing teeth are all good things to teach your puppy during this critical learning age.
Outside World/Environment
It is essential to expose your pup to doors, crates, autos, street drains, varying surfaces, clothing, blankets, beds, and numerous other stuff outside to acclimate them to ordinary objects.
Sounds
To help your puppy become accustomed to sounds and avoid a negative reaction to loud noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms, aim to encourage your puppy with these sounds. A good way is to gradually increase the volume of recorded thunder or fireworks from sound CDs, beginning with a low setting and gradually increasing to a truly high setting. Caressing, biscuits, or your puppy’s favorite toy should all be used as positive reinforcement. Additionally, horns from automobiles, trains and other loud noises can be included.
The Veterinarian
Preparation for the veterinary appointment is equally as crucial as the visit itself. Make regular visits to the veterinarian with your puppy to guarantee a pleasant experience for both of you. Spending 10-15 minutes in the clinic lobby and interacting constructively with people and other animals (in a controlled manner) will help alleviate dread and anxiety about future veterinarian appointments. The goal is to maintain a positive experience without prying or prodding.
People
Daily puppy hour with new people is important for your dog. This can occur at your residence or while you are out and about. It is recommended to bring goodies to ensure a positive experience during these encounters. Don’t forget to interact with members of the uniformed community and children.
Puppy Training Facilities
It is critical to work with puppies in a training environment along with socializing. Positive reinforcement is crucial for this form of training. Locate a reputable training class or trainer who teaches puppies through positive reinforcement. The objective is to create a favorable attitude toward the puppy’s environment, humans, and commands, frequently rewarded with food. Visit this page if you dream of owning your own Doggy Daycare Franchise.
Conclusion
Puppies do not inherit social abilities. They are predisposed to be wary of unfamiliar objects. They will get early socialization skills from their mother and siblings, but further work must guarantee that all pups evolve into well-behaved adult canines.
