The purpose of socializing your new pup is to provide them the opportunity to become a valued member of the family. A well-socialized dog is not only happier but also, obedient, confident and outgoing. The prime time to make the most inroads is during the age of 10 to 16 weeks. While you can and should continue the process beyond this age, this is the most influential time period.

Breeders and experts will tell you pups that have been improperly socialized during that age can develop behavioral issues such as shyness, are fearful and aggressive. Below are a few points to consider when socializing your new pup.

Your goal during this critical age is allow your puppy to experience as many new situations as possible. Ensuring each experience is a positive one, is our job as pet owners. Start with their new home. Familiarize them to household noises and products they will hear and meet such as plastic bag noises, vacuum cleaner and washer & dryer. Introduce them to pet friendly people as you both go for walks while practicing leash training, visits to the Dog Park as well as friends & family.

As you expand the experiences, bring along plenty of dog treats and encourage your puppy that new events are fun not scary. Expose them to different sounds around your neighborhood such as a garage door opening and closing, cars alarms etc. Introduce them to well behaved children and well manner dogs, people gathering places such as a local ice-cream parlor, coffee shop even a local parade.

More and more cities are offering pet friendly restaurants and eateries. These are great places for your new puppy to experience different environments and noises for proper socialization. As you walk with your puppy, explore different surfaces such as concrete, grass, or dirt road. When moving through the park expose them to people in wheelchairs, wearing large hats, etc. walk through a tunnel or under a bridge anywhere, you feel your dog can safely experience a different environment.

Remember that during this critical age it is important to have your puppy on a dog leash. They will not receive their last set of vaccinations until they reach the age of 16 weeks so off-leash exposure to other dogs and pets could be dangerous.

Socializing your puppy in all these experiences will provide a foundation for successful on-going training. It is also important to understand the limitations of your dog. Move at their pace; forcing socialization will defeat the purpose and only frustrate both you and your dog. Proper socialization should be fun and safe and will lead to a happier dog that is self-confident, friendly, and well trained.

by Remarkable dogs