Socializing your dog is crucial for you to enjoy a well-rounded, well-mannered pooch. Not only will you enjoy the company of your buddy in public without embarrassment, but it will help greatly with mental stimulation, exercise, leadership, and self-control. The more you socialize your dog, the less of a big deal public distractions will be to her.
Ways to Socialize your Dog
1. Have coffee/lunch/dinner at coffee shops and restaurants initially on your own then with family and friend.
2. Take him to your friends or family’s homes as well as social gatherings (with permission of course). Ask for their rules. If they wish for you to keep your dog crated, then bring a bully stick and water to keep your dog occupied. He will learn to adapt to different situations whether he is crated, leashed, or roaming among folks. Of course, roaming politely at a gathering will be the ultimate goal to be celebrated with a margarita!
3. Take walks in different locations at parks such as Shelley Lake, Lake Lynn, Pullen Park, etc. as well as outdoor malls such as Stonehenge Mall. This will expose your dogs to different distractions such as grocery store carts and doors that open/close, joggers, bikes, strollers, ducks, playgrounds, bridges, etc.
4. Take your dog to dog-friendly businesses such as pet stores and including your own work place. I have had clients report that they received permission to go into a home improvement stores, video stores, jewelry stores, etc. You can ask any establishment that doesn’t sell food.
5. Take your dog with you on errands, family activities, and, if you are self-employed, to your coffee shop while you work. You can walk him around then keep him in the car while you run into the store (on cool days only of course). Sit on a bench and you both watch the kids play. Work while your dog learns to lounge.
6. Socializing also includes having guests over so you and your dog can practice door manners as well as not harassing your guests. You might have to start with your dog on a leash and even give him a bully stick to keep himself busy, until you can weane him off both as you continue your training step-by-step.
7. If your dog is still rowdy and you need guidance, classes are a great socializing venue while receiving professional guidance so you can get the manners in quicker. Dogs learn to pay attention to you with dogs and owners around. A favorite is the Public Manners class so it’s real life.
And throughout this part of your journey with your canine companion, have fun!
Sylvie Pleasant
Specializing in Manners
Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant
K9 Solutions LLC
www.nck9solutions.com
K9 Solutions 