How to socialise your puppy: our expert’s checklist
How-to: socialise your puppy
Advice by Sue Ketland, Dog behaviour and training specialist
1
Create a list of things you want your puppy to get used to. This could include children living in or visiting the home, travelling on public transport, being around livestock, normal household noises like the hoover and washing machine etc.
2
Think about how you want your puppy to go on to behave as an adult dog. Try not to over socialise them with attention from everyone they meet as a pup, as when they’re older they might just think it’s normal to be overexcited every time someone new appears!
3
Meeting other dogs is a big part of socialisation, but again, think about how you want your pup to behave as an adult. Balance out how often they meet and play with other dogs and time spent with you, so they don’t become overly excited by every dog they see!
4
Basic training is important, like teaching your pup to be calm and focus on you while there are distractions around them, which helps build a strong and trusting relationship.
5
Good puppy classes will help you with socialisation, and most will offer advice and even puppy play time.
More information
It’s important for your pup to realise that when meeting other canine companions, not all of them will want to play. A good way to teach them this lesson, is to organise some walks with older, more sedate dogs. Puppy playtime should be supervised and managed, as some pups may find it overwhelming or scary, as others could be a bit too excitable or learn to be a bully.
What your dog might be feeling
"I trust you to keep me safe and help me when approaching something new. Please try not to break that trust by overwhelming me with things I’m not used to".
Three things you can do today
Make a list
Think of all the things you want your new pup to experience while they’re young, then make a socialisation list for them.
Out and about
Find some safe dog friendly places to visit, like pubs, cafes, garden centres etc, where you and your pup can watch the world go by without any worries or pressures.
Puppy classes
Find a reputable, ethical dog trainer at ABTC – Animal Behaviour & Training Council
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