Tuesday Training Byte: Socializing a puppy safely

Naturally when we get that new puppy we are anxious to take him out and about and show him off, but also to socialize him. The key is how to do that safely. If you purchased a puppy from a reputable breeder (perhaps a breeder awarded "Breeder of Merit" status by the AKC) the puppy will have received some good experiences already. Socialization is more about gentle exposure to different sights, sounds, smells, floor textures than meeting a bunch of people and dogs. I do not recommend a dog park or big box store for the first few months if at all. Many dogs in public places may carry illnesses and are often not under their owner's control. Your dog does not need six strangers shoving the back of their hand into his nose or putting their face into his. Here are a few tips:

1. Make sure your puppy completes the required set of puppy shots. About 3 weeks after the last one, your pup should have good immunity, however, be aware that even fully vaccinated dogs can still catch certain diseases like Parvo. Until this time, puppy stays home or goes for a car ride, but no feet on the ground. I carry my pup into the vet's office when coming into the lobby or have him in a crate.

2. Invite a friend or two over to play with your puppy at your house. Remove the pup anytime he appears fearful. Having a child come sit on the floor to play gently with the pup is also helpful. I have even adults sit on the floor or ground because pups are strong and super wiggly, and can easily wrestle their way out of one's arms and get dropped.

3. While one member of your household is playing with your pup, run the vacuum in a nearby area, or load the dishwasher noisily. Intentionally make some noise, but not so loud as to be frightening.

4. Have your pup practice "heeling" or following you in the house by putting a bit of peanut butter on a long wooden spoon held down by your left knee to lure the pup. Practice this on a variety of types of flooring including outdoors.

5. Enroll in an AKC STAR Puppy class. The "S" in STAR stands for socialization. In the class, you approved instructor will give you ideas plus you will meet other people and their (vaccinated) puppies in a controlled environment. You can find an evaluator and classes using the following link. Happy training! https://www.apps.akc.org/cgc-evaluator/

   

   Earn the AKC STAR Puppy title with your young dog! It is fun and rewarding to both you and your puppy.