A dog’s temperament, personality and behavioral habits are developed during the first 16 weeks of his life. For this reason, it is especially important to socialize your puppy from the very beginning. This includes exposing and desensitizing him to the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and textures of the world around him, as well as developing the bond between the two of you. These early interactions will later determine how he reacts to the world around him as an adult dog.
Socialization can take one of two forms, active or passive. Active socialization is when we intentionally introduce our puppy to new objects, people and situations. This can include obedience training, meeting new people or animals, or simply being introduced to strange objects. Passive socialization is what your puppy discovers on his own, such as plants and insects while going on a walk or playing in the yard. With this in mind, either keep your puppy away from any toxic plants in your home, yard and neighborhood or have them removed.
During this crucial period, puppies should be carefully introduced to new people, places, situations, objects and animals in controlled environments. Since this time can be overwhelming and stressful for a puppy, you should do your best to make sure that each encounter remains positive and pleasant, especially if the puppy is between 4 and 8 weeks old. At this age, puppies go through a “fear imprinting stage.” Although you will most likely get your new puppy toward the end of this phase, you should still avoid things that may scare him since these fears could end up being imprinted on him for the rest of his life.
If your puppy ever appears afraid of something, remain calm, positive and encouraging. You should neither coddle your puppy, since that rewards the fearful behavior, nor should you immediately force him to confront something that scares him. Instead, be patient and give him some time. His curiosity may overcome his initial fear. If not, you can take gradual steps to help desensitize him. Simply being there for your puppy, and gently encouraging him when he needs a little more confidence, will set your puppy on the path to being properly socialized.
Puppies can also learn a lot of proper behavior and social skills from other dogs. However, before introducing your puppy to other animals, be sure to consult your veterinarian to be sure your puppy is protected against any potential diseases or infections they may have. Socialization is extremely important, but so is your puppy’s health. Once your vet confirms it is safe for your puppy to interact with other dogs and cats, try taking your puppy to a park, puppy kindergarten classes, or to a friend’s house where he can meet other animals in a safe environment. Since the goal is positive interactions, aim for introductions to animals that you know are friendly and safe.
Some objects you may want to socialize your puppy to include but are not limited to:
• umbrellas
• canes and crutches
• wheelchairs
• bikes
• keys
• vacuums
• odd sounds (i.e. cell phones, cameras, radios, TVs)
• sudden loud noises (i.e. thunder, fireworks, fire alarms, flying airplanes, slamming doors, etc.)
• other animals (i.e. dogs, cats, etc.)
• young children
• passing trucks, cars, motorcycles
• people in hats
• men with beards
• people of different races, ages and genders
• men with deep voices, women with high voices
• people who ignore dogs/ people who fuss over dogs
Some situations you may want to socialize your puppy to include but are not limited to:
• car rides
• beaches and parks
• walking on various surfaces (i.e. carpet, gravel, hardwood, etc.)
• trips to the vet
• grooming, whether by you or a professional groomer
• getting a bath
• being handled by people
• time with you, and time without you
• obedience training and other doggie classes
Dogs that have not been socialized properly may develop behavioral issues such as excessive barking, aggression, or become territorial and possessive of objects they consider theirs. They may also exhibit signs of separation anxiety, such as chewing and other destructive behaviors. This lack of socialization may cause them to be fearful or anxious, which can impact their ability to successfully complete obedience training. Others may not know how to interact with people or animals properly if left unsocialized. Sadly, these dogs do not fit well with the rest of society.
The 16 week window may seem minor, but considering the impact it has on the rest of your dog’s life, it is one of the most important tasks you will have as a responsible pet parent. Besides impacting your puppy’s mental and emotional health, socialization makes your dog a stable, well-adjusted, functioning canine member of society. Dogs that were properly socialized as puppies are better suited for dealing with new experiences and situations as adults.
