Canine socialization, or the process of exposing a dog to new people, animals and places, is a crucial aspect of a dog’s development. Dogs who are not socialized can result in unwanted behaviors. Dog parks and other playgroups are increasing in popularity, and visits to these places can provide mental and physical stimulation. Proper socialization is key to introducing your dog to these enriching activities.
What are the benefits of socialization?
- Socialization calms fear and anxiety. Exposing your dog to a variety of environments and situations helps them overcome anxiety. Socialized dogs are not constantly on guard and tense, because they know they’re safe. They have less fear of the unknown and strange or loud noises aren’t as troublesome to them. They are also less likely to react negatively to the unknown animals and humans they come into contact with. Learning to accept physical touch is also important. Touching paws, ears, and the mouth will make nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care much easier if the pet has no fear when being handled.
- Socialization reduces stress and improves dogs’ physical and mental health: Mental stress is reduced when fear and anxiety are in check. Dogs who have been socialized properly will also be less vulnerable to health conditions shown to arise from constant anxiety and stress, such as Cushing’s Disease, depression, GI upsets, skin ailments, diabetes, or heart disease. When a dog inherits a disease, less mental stress and anxiety also can make it less manageable. Less stress can also result in a reduction in bad behaviors such as indoor elimination, destroying shoes or furniture, or barking excessively.
- Socialization builds confidence: Confident dogs will greet new dogs and people with their tails in a neutral position, and a calm but curious countenance. Their relaxed responses foster similar reactions from other canines around them.
- Socialization enables dogs to enjoy activities with other dogs and people: A socialized dog who is confident and carries less fear and anxiety is one who enjoys playing with new dogs, welcomes visitors to their home, and is well-behaved when taken to dog-friendly businesses, parks and playgroups. Socialized dogs engaging in these activities also learn as they teach each other the rules and boundaries of the pack. They learn from every situation they encounter.
What is the best age to socialize a dog?
The ideal window to begin socialization is between 8 and 12 weeks of age because the brain is still developing, making dogs receptive to learning new behaviors. Their natural curiosity and lack of negative memories opens them up to new and positive experiences. and they can use their natural curiosity to their advantage by learning from their experiences. They can learn that their world is a safe, fun place. It is not advised to bring puppies under 4 months of age into larger-scale pet-friendly businesses such as dog parks and doggie daycare, as their immune systems are not yet matured. Until then, limit meetings to small groups and quiet animals that you know are healthy.
While the socialization window will have closed on older dogs, it is never too late to desensitize them. If they’re given a variety of opportunities and lots of positive reinforcement, an older dog can change their feelings about new experiences and can learn that they can be fun and rewarding too. If you rescued or adopted your adult dog, Get to know your adopted adult dog, get as much information about their history as you can. These dogs carry their memories with them, even if it’s just grief for the loss or separation from a human, canine or feline friend. Keep an open mind, have patience, take things slow and gauge their reactions at each step.
What are some other tips for socializing my dog?
- Take time introducing your pets to new situations. It is okay to take it slowly. It is important not to overwhelm your pup with too much stimulation at once. This may be especially true for mature dogs. Don’t make his or her first experience pet shopping at a big box store or attending large pet events. Introduce pets already in your home one at a time to your newest addition. Look for signs of fear or aggression such as curled lips, growling, fur raised, rigid back, flat ears, tucked tails, or cowering. Intervene if necessary.
- Be patient. If your dog is hesitant or shows anxiety while trying to socialize, stop and try again another time. Observe them closely and do not force them to do something they are not ready to try. Try again in a few days or a week.
- Stay calm and always use positive reinforcement. Remaining calm and rewarding good behavior is very beneficial for socialization. Angry or abusive responses are counterproductive to creating a trusting bond between a pet and his or her parent. Ignore bad behavior and reward them with treats, a toy, and/or your affection when they get it right. Be consistent throughout the process.
- Be aware of how your dog’s breed may affect their socialization process. It’s important to understand your pup’s tendencies and abilities with respect to their breed. For example, working dogs like Labradors are naturally more laid back and likely to socialize easily, whereas Australian Shepherds and Jack Russell Terriers may be uneasy if they’re expected to just meet, greet, and play.
- Take your dog’s age and health into consideration. Older or disabled dogs can be socialized; however, they may be more timid, hampered by sensory loss, or less able to move around. However, it’s never a waste of time to help them be comfortable around new dogs, people, and those experiences and will only serve to enrich their life.
- Consider natural remedies when anxiety is still a problem: If pets are having a hard time adjusting to a new environment, natural products such as flower essences, essential oils, and pheromone diffusers have calming effects. Be sure to use those essential oils (such as lavender) that are safe for pets. Calming music is another option. Homeopathic remedies for anxiety (such as Nat mur, Ignatia amara, and Aconitum napellus) can provide relief from emotional stress. Anxiety wraps like the Thundershirt are garments designed to reduce anxiety in dogs. Stress and anxiety supplements may be helpful.
Socialization is a lifelong, ongoing process. Countless studies have shown that active dogs are healthier. Whether young or old, every pup needs positive socialization to allow them to discover just how exciting and fun the world can be. By promoting positive interactions and providing a safe and supportive environment, we can help our dogs develop into well-rounded and well-behaved companions.
Learn more in my book, Naturally Healthy Dogs: Unleashed!
