0
0
If we wanted to interpret socialization literally, we would limit ourselves to subjecting the dog to cognitive processes that allow it to find itself in the human world and function in it. However, this issue is much broader, and its recognition turns out to be helpful when we want to not only subordinate the pet to our norms and habits, but also its sustainable development. Proper socialization of the dog shapes the identity of our favorite . The ability to cope with stress and hardships of everyday life protects him from fears and teaches him to live in harmony with other animals and people. That is why it is so important to ensure that socialization is carried out correctly and that it is introduced into the pooch’s life as soon as possible.
HOW TO START SOCIALIZING A PUPPY?
The socialization of dogs in practice varies . Sometimes it starts already in breeding, when the little one is gradually exposed to various stimuli. And if we find a good breeder, he will do some of the work for us. Puppies are very curious by nature and learn very quickly, so it is believed that the first months of life are crucial in socialization. Of course, adult animals can also be socialized, but the later we start working with the dog, the more difficult it will be to achieve satisfactory results.
If the puppy’s socialization was already neglected by the breeder, first we must carefully familiarize the boy with the human world. He has to know sounds, human touch, objects. However, before being subjected to various stimuli, he must feel safe – otherwise he will develop anxiety. Give him a hand to smell, let him willingly get on his lap. Only when the puppy gets used to our touch and home and we give him the sense of security that the female dog has given him so far, can we stimulate his senses, e.g. with the sounds of nature and the city, smells, seeing various objects, etc.
It is better to wait a few weeks to get to know the outside world and even limit the dog’s toilet to the surrounding square or your own garden, because the puppy must acquire immunity after vaccination. In addition, giving him too much emotion at once can have a negative effect on the toddler. However, it is worth going with the dog to the city so that he can observe the world. You can take a smaller dog with you in a carrier so that it does not come into contact with the ground, and a larger one for a car ride. If the dog does not see a busy street, buses, trams, etc. in the first weeks of its life, it can have big problems adapting to the city.
NEXT STEPS
If the breeder showed the correct approach to socialization , our little one is probably not afraid of noise, water, contact with other animals and people. From that moment on, our task will be mainly to teach the pet to live in our household and the rules prevailing in it, and to gradually show him the world. We need to keep the puppy in contact with people and other dogs, but we do it gradually. We do not invite all our friends on the first day, we do not take him for the first walk to the catwalk, where a pack of dogs is running, or for a stroll through the crowded streets at rush hour. We grade emotions and make sure that they are mostly positive, because a young pooch may be traumatized for the rest of his life after unpleasant experiences.
Give your pet a chance to make canine friends. If he is already fully vaccinated, then interaction with other dogs is most appropriate. The doggie needs contact with other individuals of his species. You can also gradually take it on further trips, to the lake, to the forest or a tram ride. Let him approach the stranger, let the dog smell him, and he may give him a treat. Also, from the very beginning, show him what he is allowed and what is not. The little one will test your patience in order to achieve his goal. Set rules and follow them. Proper socialization is not only about influencing a pet with various stimuli, but also about demanding and upbringing it.
