05 Acclimatization and Socialization
Description
This article is from the Your New Puppy FAQ, by Cindy Tittle Moore with numerous contributions by others.
05 Acclimatization and Socialization
Accustom your puppy to many things at a young age. Baths, brushing,
clipping nails, cleaning ears, having teeth examined, and so on.
Taking the time to make these things matter of fact and pleasant for
your puppy will save you a world of time and trouble later in its
life.
For example, every evening before the dog eats (but after you have put
its bowl down), check its ears by peeking in the ear and touching it
with your fingers. Do this every evening until the dog stops fussing
about it. Continue to do it and you'll always know if your dog's ears
are okay.
Brushing is important, especially for double coated or long-haired
dogs when they begin to shed. A little effort now to get your puppy to
enjoy brushing will save you a lot of trouble later when it begins to
shed and shed and shed...
During your puppy's first year, it is very important that it be
exposed to a variety of social situations. After the puppy has had all
its shots, carefully expose it to the outside world. Take it to
different places: parks, shopping centers, schools, different
neighborhoods, dog shows, obedience classes--just about anywhere you
can think of that would be different for a little puppy. If the puppy
seems afraid, then let it explore by itself. Encourage the puppy, but
be firm, not coaxing. If you want to take the pup in an elevator, let
it try it on its own, but firmly insist that it have the experience.
Your favorite dog food and supply store (unless it's a pet store) is a
good place; dog shows are another. You want the pup to learn about the
world so that it doesn't react fearfully to new situations when it is
an adult. You also want it to learn that you will not ask it to do
anything dangerous or harmful. Socializing your dog can be much fun
for you and the dog!
Do not commit the classic mistake made by many owners when their dogs
exhibit fear or aggression on meeting strangers. DO NOT "soothe" them,
or say things like "easy, boy/girl," "it's OK..." This serves as
REINFORCEMENT and ENCOURAGES the fear or growling! Instead, say "no!"
sharply and praise it WHEN IT STOPS. Praise it even more when it
allows its head to be petted. If it starts growling or backing up
again, say "no!" Be a little more gentle with the "no" if the dog
exhibits fear, but do be firm. With a growling dog, be much more
emphatic and stern with your "no!"
If you are planning to attend a puppy class (and you should, they are
not expensive) ask the instructor about her/his views before you sign
up. If socialization is not part of the class, look elsewhere.
The Art of Raising a Puppy has many valuable tips and interesting
points on the subject of socializing puppies.
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