Your puppy’s socialization process begins as soon as you bring him home. If you don’t properly introduce your puppy to the rest of the world, he may grow up to be fearful, shy or aggressive toward other people and animals.
Your puppy’s first few months are the most crucial in terms of socialization—it’s during this time that he or she will learn how to handle new situations and respond appropriately, whether it’s interacting with people, other dogs, or even certain objects (for example, your furniture). If you miss this important stage, then you could end up with a dog that’s afraid of everything (including you!) or worse—a dog who becomes aggressive.
This article will provide information on why puppy socialization is so important and how to go about doing it right.
Puppies can start training earlier
Puppies can start obedience training as early as 8 weeks of age and should have a solid foundation in place by 6 months of age, before going to their new home.
Puppy Socialization should happen from 1-12 weeks to set them up for success later on, at least until 16 weeks (when puppies are immune systems fully mature). A variety of classes, including Socialization and Canine Good Citizen prep are available for puppies during these periods. Do not take away from that time because after 12 weeks, puppy behavior can change dramatically!
That is why we strongly recommend starting with a trainer earlier rather than later!
Improves dog/people bond
One of the most powerful benefits of early dog exposure is that our pups learn to trust us, which helps create a strong emotional bond between our pets and us as owners. In turn, that makes training much easier because our dogs respect us; they're willing to listen when we say no or reward them for good behavior with treats or affection. And even better:
Studies show that dogs who are properly socialized with humans at an early age are less likely to develop behavior problems later in life—like growling at visitors, barking for attention or running away from their owner during walks. (source)
Gives a better understanding of canine behavior
Socialization helps a dog better understand its environment, including other dogs and animals, as well as people.
This leads to a dog that’s less aggressive, nervous or timid in new situations, making them better overall companions. It can also be used to help dogs cope with changes that occur over time, such as moving or getting a new family member—this is commonly known as getting used to change.
Socialization is an integral part of being a responsible pet owner and helps our pets live happier lives.
Can lead to less fearfulness
If a dog doesn’t learn how to interact with people and other dogs early on, they could be fearful and anxious throughout their life, or worse: too shy to enjoy all the good things that come from meeting new people and animals along their way.
In other words, they might never get comfortable enough to be able to develop into normal dog -- even if it means they don’t start off as a super-social pooch right away. That said, there are some reasons you might not want (or have time) to put your pup in every situation under the sun; make sure not to push them too far past their comfort zone at an early age (or any age), no matter how much they beg for belly rubs from friendly strangers!
Makes time spent with dog more enjoyable
One of my favorite parts about dog ownership is playing and spending time with my pup. I always look forward to our cuddle sessions where we bond together, relax and chat about our days. Whether it’s snuggling up on a couch or walking along a trail, dogs are truly man’s best friend. But when one takes on the responsibility of owning a dog, that person is also taking on added responsibilities.
By properly socializing your new pooch from an early age, you can ensure that you and he will be able to enjoy each other for many years to come.
Playtime provides physical activity and a great way to get their bodies moving while also allowing them to release pent up energy they might have during long days alone in an apartment or house.
Can reduce risk of disease, bad behaviors and aggression
The main reason why people fail to socialize their dogs is because they are concerned about their puppies’ safety and fear their dog will be hurt by other dogs.
However, a study conducted by Temple University found that even if two pets fight while they’re young, they can still become good friends if exposed to each other multiple times over the course of several weeks to months.
The same study showed that puppies that were never exposed to other animals during early life are almost three times as likely to develop disease or bad behaviors as those who spent time around unfamiliar animals as pups.
If you have children at home, exposing your pet to them early on helps establish a positive relationship between kids and pets—and prevents any accidents from occurring in years to come!
That was it for this blog, we hope you find it interesting and value-adding.
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