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Behavioral problems are one of the most common reasons that dogs are surrendered to a pound or shelter and it really doesn’t have to be that way with the right training and upbringing. Early socialization is one of the most important things you can do for your puppy to ensure that he grows up to be a confident, well-adjusted adult.
What is the Proper Way to Socialize Your Puppy?
Puppies less than 3-4 months old are the ideal candidates for socialization. At this age, they are more curious and less easily intimidated by new surroundings and strange situations. As they get older, socialization becomes more difficult.
The proper way to socialize your puppy entails exposing your puppy to as many new experiences, people and other animals as possible before he reaches 4 months of age. However, this needs to be done in a manner that is safe for your puppy. It also needs to be done in a way that is effective. It is never a good idea to force your puppy into a situation where he is frightened. Let him approach the situation at his pace and in his own time.
Why the Controversy About Socializing Your Young Puppy?
Unfortunately, there are still some veterinarians as well as some breeders and maybe even a few dog trainers who advise against early socialization for your puppy. The main objection is the need to protect young puppies from disease. Puppies less than 3-4 months old are more easily socialized but they are also more susceptible to diseases such as parvovirus.
Fortunately, we can minimize that risk by choosing our puppies playmates carefully. We can choose other puppies and adult dogs that we know are healthy and up-to-date on routine veterinary health care such as vaccinations and wormings. We can avoid dog parks and other areas where we cannot control which animals are puppies will encounter.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior endorses early socialization for puppies and provides tips on socializing your puppy correctly.
Operation Socialization: Bringing Puppy Owners, Dog Trainers and Local Businesses Together for the Benefit of All
Operation Socialization is a pretty cool organization. Their mission statement says this:
“To make sure puppies grow up into behaviorally healthy, happy dogs that make great lifetime companions, thereby saving millions of dogs from surrender and euthanasia.”
I love that they reach out to puppy owners and trainers both and include local businesses in the equation to give puppies a place to go to get socialized. It really is a win-win-win situation. The business owner gets publicity and a reputation within the dog community for being pet friendly. The dog trainer gets a chance to teach their pet owners how to socialize their puppies safely and effectively. And the puppy owner gets the opportunity to make sure their puppy gets the training and socialization that is needed.
This week on Animal Cafe, our own Eric Goebelbecker speaks with Ariana Kincaid, President and Founder of Operation Socialization. Sit back, grab yourself a nice cool beverage and enjoy the chat. And don’t forget to check out what’s coming up on Animal Cafe. We’ve got lots of great guests lined up!
Photo Courtesy of davdunc/Flickr.com
About Lorie Huston, DVM
Lorie Huston is a veterinarian, pet health and pet care expert, professional writer, blogger, social media and blogging consultant, and SEO strategist.
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