Socializing your puppy
John Hunt, M.S., D.V.M.
The activities listed below will help your new puppy become incorporated into the household. This process is called socialization. Your new pet will become strongly attached to your family during this period of time. It is important that your puppy learn he/she is the subordinate member of the family. This will minimize the potential for bad habits and behavior problems such as dominance or aggression. It is especially important to work with the male for he will have a greater tendency to want to become dominant when he matures.
It is vital that everyone in the family practice exercises. Younger children should have adult supervision The following activities should become part of the normal routine for your dog:
It is vital that everyone in the family practice exercises. Younger children should have adult supervision The following activities should become part of the normal routine for your dog:
- While the puppy is small, pick it up frequently.
- Rub the puppy's stomach while it is on its back.
- During grooming or petting use moderate pressure from head to tail.
- During play don't allow puppy to stand on or over you.
- Avoid excessive tug-of war games. Encourage fetch and retrieval.
- Teach the dog to sit. Use short but frequent sessions for young dogs.
- Practice taking food away at mealtime. Praise for compliance.
- Teach pup to relinquish toys or objects on command.
- Praise dog for good behavior even when resting quietly.
- Practice manipulating the ears, paws and mouth.
- Have your pet obey commands prior to everyday activities: i.e., feeding, playing, going outdoors, etc. Incorporate obedience school commands.