Dogs learn behaviors at an early age. By the time they re a few weeks old, they begin learning how to interact with others. During their first several weeks prior to being adopted, puppies primarily interact with their mother and littermates. By the seventh or eighth week, pups are adopted into new homes where they are surrounded by those who are unfamiliar to them. It is during this time that new behaviors are learned and strengthened. It is also when socialization can have the greatest impact on their development.
In this article, we ll provide three reasons you should socialize your dog while he is still a puppy. We ll also describe how you can cure timidity if you notice it has taken root.
Reason 1 Prevent Future Behavioral Problems
When canines display aggressive behavior toward other people and animals, it is often due to their not having been socialized as a pup. The same is true for extreme shyness. It takes root and becomes stronger over time, unless you proactively desensitize your pooch to the triggers which prompt his shyness or aggression.
These types of behaviors can be a nuisance to owners. For example, your canine might hide in another room of your home when you have visitors. Or, he might react aggressively toward other pets when you take him for a walk. By socializing him early, you can prevent such behavior from festering.
Reason 2 Familiarity With People
As an owner, you want your pooch to be comfortable with people who come to your home, or those you meet outside your home. If he s comfortable with them, he ll be less likely to threaten a physical confrontation. Plus, a greater sense of comfort around people not only makes your dog a far more engaging companion, but strengthens the bond you share together. This familiarity comes directly from early socialization. And the earlier you start, the more quickly he ll become acclimated to people.
Reason 3 Comfort Among Other Animals
Pack animals are accustomed to protecting their territory from perceived threats. If your canine is naturally distrustful of others, he might react poorly when exposed to them. For example, if he never learned to socialize with other dogs, he might behave aggressively toward them while visiting a dog park. This can lead to a confrontation with disastrous consequences.
Handling Early Timidity Toward Others
If your pooch has already developed a sense of timidity, you ll need to slowly and carefully desensitize him. Tell strangers (including children) to approach him slowly rather than running up to him. Otherwise, he may become fearful with the sudden movements and go into defensive mode. Also, the person who is unfamiliar to your canine should avoid looking directly in his eyes. That might be misinterpreted as a threat.
Lastly, have the person sit down on the floor while holding a treat and facing away from your dog. That will encourage your pooch to come for the treat, giving him a higher level of comfort with that person.
Early socialization is important for all canines. It can help prevent behavioral problems while making dogs more comfortable around those who are unfamiliar to them. You ll find that it turns your pooch into a lovable, trusting, and reliable companion.
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