Continuing Socialization

Socializing Delta outside the local grocery store.

It's easy to enroll your puppy in a puppy class or two and think your socialization efforts are complete, but it is important to continue to socialize your pup well past puppy-hood and throughout his life.  Noted trainer and author Jean Donaldson states there is a “use it or lose it” aspect to socialization because over time, an animal’s degree of sociability always moves naturally in the direction of greater fear-avoidance of things rarely encountered.  Here are a few quick suggestions on keeping your dog social:

• Enroll him in a training class.  Tricks, nosework, agility, canine good citizen...there are lots of fun options.
• Some of the classes you take can lead to continued socialization as well as a lifelong hobby competing in agility, trialling in nosework, getting your dog therapy dog certified and going on visits...
• Arrange for doggy play-dates with compatible dogs owned by your friends.  You can let the pups romp in your back yard or get more ambitious and take them on an outdoor adventure swimming or hiking or....
• Need some caffeine?  On a good weather day, go to your local coffee shop and grab a beverage to drink in the outdoor seating area.  If your pup is a cutie, people are sure to ask to visit.
• Running errands?  If you are going to a business that allows dogs, take your pup along with you.  Pet supply stores welcome leashed dogs, as do many hardware stores.  In my area there is even a nationally known clothing store and a local kitchen supply store that allow leashed, wall-mannered dogs.
• Got kids, or know someone who does?  Outdoor sports provide a great place to socialize your dog with other spectators.

If you put your mind to it you can think of lots of other things to do with your dog to encourage him to stay socialize and confident.  Use common sense, take treats for people to give your pup and enjoy yourself!