The Social Scene- Introducing Your Puppy to the World
Puppies don't come into our world with ready knowledge about humans or the world in which we live. It is important to expose your young puppy to as many new people, animals and experiences as possible so that they can learn about everything and everyone while they are young and sociable. Lack of early exposure to new things and new people can cause your dog to become fearful and anxious when in unfamiliar places.
What is Socialization?
Socialization is the process of developing relationships with other living beings. The most important time for socializing puppies is during the first three months of life. Lack of socialization can lead to fear, timidity, and aggression. Although the first twelve weeks are the most important, socialization should continue into adulthood.
Socializing Your Puppy
Start with simple, calm introductions over the first few days after you bring your new puppy home. As long as your puppy doesn't display fear with only 1-2 people over, begin to include more people, noises and activities. Invite family and friends to bring their pets over to play with your new puppy. If you are taking your new puppy to dog parks, pet stores or other pet friendly places, make sure that you puppy has been adequately vaccinated!
It is important that your puppy meets a wide variety of people of all ages especially children. Some pups seem to consider children a completely different species since they walk, act and talk much differently than adults. If you do not have any children in your home, you may need to go out of your way to provide your puppy with plenty of positive interactions with children during the early months. The same is true for anything else that is not normally found in your home.
What is Habituation?
Habituation describes how a pet can adapt to new environments through repeated exposure. As your puppy matures, new situations can lead to anxiety and fear. Begin habituation at an early age by frequently exposing your puppy to different sights, sounds, odors, surfaces and situations. If your puppy seems to be exceptionally cautious when first introduced to something new, start with mild exposure and give food rewards for non-fearful responses. You can then gradually "build up" to more intense exposure.
Socialization is the process of developing relationships with other living beings. The most important time for socializing puppies is during the first three months of life. Lack of socialization can lead to fear, timidity, and aggression. Although the first twelve weeks are the most important, socialization should continue into adulthood.
Socializing Your Puppy
Start with simple, calm introductions over the first few days after you bring your new puppy home. As long as your puppy doesn't display fear with only 1-2 people over, begin to include more people, noises and activities. Invite family and friends to bring their pets over to play with your new puppy. If you are taking your new puppy to dog parks, pet stores or other pet friendly places, make sure that you puppy has been adequately vaccinated!
It is important that your puppy meets a wide variety of people of all ages especially children. Some pups seem to consider children a completely different species since they walk, act and talk much differently than adults. If you do not have any children in your home, you may need to go out of your way to provide your puppy with plenty of positive interactions with children during the early months. The same is true for anything else that is not normally found in your home.
What is Habituation?
Habituation describes how a pet can adapt to new environments through repeated exposure. As your puppy matures, new situations can lead to anxiety and fear. Begin habituation at an early age by frequently exposing your puppy to different sights, sounds, odors, surfaces and situations. If your puppy seems to be exceptionally cautious when first introduced to something new, start with mild exposure and give food rewards for non-fearful responses. You can then gradually "build up" to more intense exposure.