Dogs Are Animals, Not Humans
It’s easy to turn your dog into a family member and forget that despite her froo-froo dress up clothes and the fact she sleeps on your bed and sometimes shares your food, she’s still a dog. But it’s important for her emotional well-being to make an effort to let her be a dog, especially when it comes to socializing with other members of the species.
Too often we bring home a new dog and welcome the puppy as a member of the family. But then the dog becomes a fixture of the home, and rarely sees people outside of the family except for the vet and groomer. Even though the dog connects with visitors who come to our home, their well-being requires that they mix with others dogs in an environment outside of your home.
Is this really necessary? Yes, it is say the experts because dogs who are properly socialized early in their life tend to interact with others as friends, not foes. Dogs who are not permitted this needed connection are shown to be more aggressive.
Teaching your new puppy to make friends is not a difficult task, but you should wait until she has had all of her shots before taking the walk on the canine side. Puppies are more likely to be interested in meeting a new dog and curiosity will outweigh caution. Just like children, they don’t know what a stranger is.
A walk in a community park, or if you are lucky enough to have one in your area, a dog park is always a good place to meet other puppies and their walkers. Many dog parks have separate areas for puppies or small dogs. Talk to dog owners and see which dogs are most likely to accept your pup’s attempts at making friends, or find another puppy owner and let your little ones play. If your dog makes a special new friend in the park, then chat with the owner about scheduling time for the pups to play.
Alternatives to a dog park are walking trails, or even visiting a pet store that welcomes canine shoppers. But regardless of the venue, don’t leave the leash at home. Some dogs don’t take kindly to the leash, although pups tend to be more accepting. Although it’s tempting to rush in for a pet, always ask permission before going up to another person’s dog.
The same general rules apply to an older dog, although if your dog shows anxiety or fear, or reacts aggressively to the approach of a strange dog, then a busy dog park might not be the best option. Instead look for a kennel or doggy day care that provides socialization for guests and talk with the operator about your concerns. Find one that will help your dog address his fears so that he can learn to be a happy canine. In extreme cases a trainer or dog behaviorist may be needed, but socializing your dog is worth the effort.
It means happier dog walks, easier trips to the vet, and if you decide to add another dog at some point, a smoother transition for both of you.
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