“PAW-PULAR” DOGS…Easy Tricks To Turn Your Dog Into A Social Animal

y, Katy Cable-TWR
A 2 min. Read

Is your dog as popular as the middle seat on an airplane? With so many people getting “a new addition” for the holidays, I thought it was important to address this very important topic. In fact, failing to properly socialize your dog can mean MAJOR headaches for everyone.

​Why is this such a big deal? Believe it or not, dogs that aren't properly socialized usually display serious behavioral problems making them unsuitable family pets. Nearly half the dogs relinquished to shelters have at least one behavioral problem. The most common being aggression and destructiveness. These traits are usually rooted in fear and anxiety.

Hopefully you had the opportunity to begin socializing your dog as a new puppy. But it's never too early to begin exposing them to as many new people, animals, environments and other stimuli as possible. The best way to help your dog handle a variety of new experiences without having them exhibit behavioral problems is this: Each and every day, engage all your dog’s senses through exposure to the sights, sounds, and snells of daily life. In addition, expose them to new ones as often as possible. Being able to trust your dog will handle situations with acceptable behavior brings peace of mind to you and your confident canine! Here are a few suggestions to try with your new dog or puppy that has completed some basic puppy training:

• I'm a HUGE fan of obedience classes. They provide an environment where all the dogs (and their owners) are kept under the control and guidance of a skilled trainer. This can be very helpful if your pet seems wary or fearful around other dogs. Organized classes give them the opportunity to be around other pups, but from a safe, trusting, supervised distance. With CoVid, you may want to opt for an outdoor class or a much smaller class size.
• If you have friends with dogs, arrange play dates. Begin with one dog at a time. Start the introduction with a short walk in a neutral territory. Once the dogs have gotten to know each other try letting them play in a safe, enclosed area. This is a perfect low pressure social situation in which your pup can hone their skills without being overwhelmed by too many dogs, or an overly dominant or possessive pooch. If things go well, you can arrange future outings for the four of you to take walks, go hiking, toss Frisbees, fetch tennis balls, go swimming, etc. Always practice safe social distancing and wear a mask.
• If it makes sense for you and your dog, get involved in dog agility classes. These provide a great opportunity for your dog to be around other dogs and people while getting lots of exercise, mental stimulation, and building a stronger bond with you. If classes aren’t available in your area right now, check out free videos online and set up your own agility drills. Maybe you can do competitions with your dog one day.
• If agility isn’t for you, some other high-energy activities, including flying disc, dock jumping/dock diving, fly-ball, fly-gility, herding, hunt and field trials, musical freestyle and heel work, to name just a few.
• Not all socialization activities need to be physically demanding. One of my favorites is therapy dog work. Depending on your dog's temperament and personality, you can have them pass simple training to be a therapeutic visitation dog. You and your dog can make visits to hospitals, nursing homes, detention units, rehab facilities, schools, senior citizen apartments and other places where people aren't permitted to keep pets or aren't able to care for them. It's extremely rewarding for everyone. Find more information at: http://tdi-dog.org/. Again, due to Covid restrictions this might not be an option right now, but I would recommend checking out the qualification test skills and begin working on those with your dog. Then you’ll be ready to go when it’s safe.
• Another possible option for socialization and exercise is to enroll your pet in a doggy daycare program one or two days a week. It's very important the facility you choose has a knowledgeable staff trained in dog communication and interaction, separate play areas for dogs of different sizes, and supervised playgroups. Be certain they are doing extensive temperament tests on all dogs to evaluate their behavior in the daycare environment. Introduction to the pack should be gradual for all new dogs.
• I enjoy doing "meet-ups" with other dog groups. Twice a month we meet at the local dog beach and or dog park to see old friends and make new ones. For new or more timid dogs, try a visit to the park or dog beach during slower weekday times. It is less crowded and intimidating.
• Last but not least, never underestimate the socialization value of good daily walks. Maybe mix it up and try a new, unfamiliar neighborhood for a change of pace with your dog. You both get fresh air, stress-relieving endorphins and perhaps even a little cardio exercise. I LOVE dog walking and the fun opportunities it brings for us both to meet old and new friends! -Both two and four-legged!
  
  

With a little time and attention, you can transform most dogs into “social animals!” Not only will it be fun but you will both end up happier and in better health. 🐾

💕Speaking of “PAW-pular dogs”, big thank you's to Pupstar Sonoma's Roxy, Bono & Blue appearing in one of my all-time favorite photos which I love so much. Here’s a fun clip from their first calendar launch PAWTY!