Dog socialization is an indispensable step in raising our four-legged friends, the process by which a puppy develops relationships with animals of its own species and other species, including us humans. The most sensitive period is the period from 3 to 12 weeks of age. We will tell you what it is, how to socialize a dog and what benefits it provides.
What is the socialization of dogs?
Canine socialization is an educational process in which our dog learns to interact with his environment, including other people and dogs. Proper socialization from an early age leads the dog to develop normal reactions to various environments, people, dogs and other animals.
It is very important to socialize a dog from an early age, because possible behavior problems in adulthood, such as fear, insecurity or aggression, are avoided. However, it should be noted that there are cases where genetics plays a decisive role, even if the dog is socialized.
Although socialization is a lifelong process, socializing a dog should begin as a puppy, preferably at four months of age. For what? Well, because it’s a critical period in learning and adapting. In this way, over the years, we will have a balanced adult dog.
Dog walk.
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Benefits of dog socialization
Early socialization of dogs is necessary for our four-legged friend to be balanced as adults. Thus, among the advantages of this educational approach, we find:
Reduce fear and anxiety. Poorly socialized dogs usually react with fear to different situations, places, etc. Improves physical fitness. Dogs communicate by playing and sniffing each other, it is highly recommended to visit dedicated dog walking areas or just let them socialize while walking Understand hierarchy and social structure. Socialization allows them, starting with puppies, to understand their place in the “pack” (in other words, in the family). In the same way, playing with other dogs develops the role of leader or follower. Emotional well-being. Isolating a dog often causes depression, inability to adapt and insecurity. Thus, socialization helps develop a dog’s curiosity, confidence, orientation. The development of intelligence. This allows the dog to learn to read the body language of other dogs and people, making interaction easier. If there is no fear, there are no aggressive reactions to changes in the environment. This is why it is so important to socialize dogs from puppies.
Pets.
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How to socialize a dog: tips and tricks
Patience and perseverance are key when it comes to raising a dog. And the fact is that communication does not cease to be a learning process, so everything must be done slowly and correctly.
Communication with a puppy
Very often owners make the mistake of socializing the dog too late. Ideally this should be done from 3 weeks old and with dogs of the same age. The more contact they have with different dogs in the first 4 months of life, the more social skills they will acquire and the better they will relate to their adult environment.
If the dog is adopted by an adult, it must also be socialized. As we said earlier, socialization is a lifelong learning process.
Socialization of the dog.
image source: 123rf.com
Calm approaches
There are dogs that are very quick-tempered when interacting with others. It is important not to let him train you, to wait until he relaxes and gradually bring him closer to you. You will notice that he has calmed down and is no longer pulling on the leash. Faced with his calm, we can reward him with a treat, thus practicing positive reinforcement.
Peace of mind above all
Dogs know when we are happy, sad or nervous. And it is us who must remain calm when we see another dog approaching. It is important not to yell at him, pull on the leash, or force him to stand still. Ideally, long leashes should be used so that the dog has freedom of movement and we can control it without being harsh.
Keep your games under control
There are times when games can cause overstimulation, causing conflict. We must always be alert if at some point we have to intervene. If our dog becomes depressed, we should call him, and if he wants to run away from another, it is better to get him out of this situation.
Consult a professional
Depending on the case, the behavior of our four-legged friend can become so ingrained that we need professional help to help dogs with fear, aggression or phobia problems.
See also: Summer Dog Care Features: Preventing Heat Stroke.
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