What is Socialization?

• Showing your puppy what is "normal" in their world!
• Crucial time period: First 16 to 20 weeks of age
• Continued exposure for older dogs!

General Guidelines

Socialization is primarily about exposure, not interaction. What is the dog seeing, smelling, and hearing?

If using treats, make sure the dog sees/hears the exposure first, then deliver the cookies. The exposure predicts the treats, not the other way around.

The dog should be UNDER THRESHOLD when exposed. Curious, not nervous!

• Increase distance until they can observe calmly.
• Let the puppy choose to approach if safe and appropriate.
• Don't lure the puppy closer with food. Many puppies will walk through fire for the cookie and then are too close!
• Consider doing a "find it" cookie tossed further away so the puppy can choose to approach again.

Environment

During this time of social distancing, we will have to be extra careful of where you go. But there are still things we can do to tackle showing your puppy different environments!

• Move a piece of furniture in your house when your dog is crated/outside so it's a sudden surprise. Put your vacuum on top of the coffee table!
• Introduction to water with small amounts of water in a tub or kiddie pool.
• Take a walk at a different park or even a parking lot. Practice sitting still and watching the world from a distance at an entry to a grocery store or pharmacy.
• Drive around in your car and stop a few places to sit and watch. Get the puppy used to travel!
• Talk a walk after dark.
• Find a set of new stairs to climb.

A special consideration in the environment category is watching things that move.

• Pop up your umbrella and let the dog investigate.
• Set up a flag flapping in the wind, or a plastic bag on a leash.
• Grab your bicycle, a stroller, skateboard, or anything with wheels, and let the dog watch it move.
• Wipe down a shopping cart in a parking lot and have the dog walk alongside.
• Push a wagon outside in the yard.
• Let the dog watch you exercise. Yoga anyone?
• Get out your rolling suitcase and push it around.

Noises

What are some different noises you can make at home? Remember to shower your puppy with treats slightly after the noise occurs so that the noise predicts food.

• Grab a cardboard tube and hold it up to your mouth as you make funny noises!