Socializing Your Puppy

Puppies need to be socialized at a young age. They should be exposed to people other than those they live with on a daily basis. This help them to become well-behaved dogs without any anxiety or aggression issues around strangers. you should also try to socialize your new puppy with other dogs and pets as well.

Puppies need to be socialized as early as possible. It is around 12 weeks of age that they form their impressions of the outside world. Socialization done before this time is the most critical in your new puppy's life. Between 8 - 10 weeks is when most puppies go through a fearful stage. During this period it is extremely important to keep interactions positive and reassuring. Puppies who are not well socialized while at a young age may grow up to be aggressive or fearful dogs.

After your new puppy has received all of his needed vaccinations it is a good idea to take him for frequent walks around the neighborhood, car trips, or trips to the dog park or pet store. This will allow your new puppy to get acquainted with car rides which is always a good idea. He will also get to meet new people and other dogs at the store. This may likely become a favorite activity for your puppy.

It is also a good idea to teach your puppy to 'sit' while they are being petted. puppies are usually very excited to meet new people and as a result have a tendency to jump to get closer to them. This is especially true with smaller dogs. Teaching your puppy to sit when petted will eliminate this tendency and other will love to pet your well-behaved puppy. Having your puppy sit is especially important when small children or the elderly want to pet her. Jumping can scare children and possibly knock-down them or older individuals who may be unsteady on their feet.

It may be hard at first, but by properly socializing your puppy at a young age you will be blessed with years of fun with your well-behaved, non-aggressive dog. Others will love to have your dog around and enjoy petting her without any worries or fears. Good luck with your new task of socializing your puppy.