• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Puppy socialization key to creating well-trained dogs

Posted December 18, 2016

Early  puppy socialization is an effective method in “producing well-trained dogs.”

This is the conclusion reached by Seksel, K et al defining the “short and long term behavioral effects of puppy socialization programs.”

puppy socializationAccording to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), there are roughly 7.6 million animals brought to animal centers each year in the US. Out of this figure, around 1.2 million dogs are put down or euthanized for various reasons.

But, the shocking figures do not simply affirm that a big number of pets end up in the animal shelter; the most alarming signal is that one of the reasons they end there is because of behavioral problems which are either identified as hyperactivity or aggressiveness.

This is a compelling reason for puppy socialization at an early age, typically between 12-16 weeks after birth or just before vaccination as recommended by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSA) to detect and avoid potential behavior problems.

While many owners are apprehensive that by so doing, their puppies will be exposed to infectious or even life-threatening diseases, the risk is relatively small compared to the potential behavioral problems.

Puppy socialization tips

One of the ways you can socialize your pet is through puppy school. Puppies attending puppy school are introduced to a different type of setting, interact with other pets & strangers, respond to trainers and get used to commands.

They will also learn to behave (housebreaking), play, and contain hyperactivity with the help of trainers.

If puppy school is not an option, take the time to expose your puppy to as many people, places and other animals as you can.

This will enable your pooch to get used to different scents and sounds. Your puppy will learn to accept and get used to various types of sensory feeling including touch and will experience a broad range of stimuli.

You should also spend time with your puppy on walks to the park or rides in cars. Play with your pooch and allow toys and games. Puppy socialization requires exposure to different environments and will condition your canine friend by helping create a comfort zone and teaching your puppy to respond properly to new situations.

Benefits of Puppy Socialization

A socialized puppy will cope well with changes in the environment and different situations. Puppy socialization helps dogs learn to respond positively to problems and challenges by demonstrating appropriate behavior.

In contrast, an unsocialized pet will exhibit anxiety and fear or might express aggression. No one benefits in this situation – neither you nor the pet who will likely be sent away to a shelter or another home.

Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

Related Posts

  • Dog inspiration: Puppy therapy

    When you feel lousy, puppy therapy is indicated. Dogs do…

  • 3 tips for first-time puppy owners

    It can be confusing for first-time puppy owners to know…

  • Older beagle plays with younger dog. Ongoing socialization helps create a happier, healthier dog by reducing stress and anxiety and making the dog more confident.
    Don't stop! Socialization isn't just for puppies

    Ongoing socialization helps create a happier, healthier dog by reducing…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Training, Home Page, Puppies Tagged With: Socialization

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

Pet sitterPoodleRottweilerOld dogsVacation dog careThanksgivingPuppy-proofRescue dogSocializationPet parentsSheddingSeparation anxietyWaterSmall dogsPomeranianPandemicYorkshire terrierValentine's DayWorking dogsOutdoor activitiesPetfinder.comPawService dogsTwo dogsPuppy kindergartentraining tipsPit bullPotty trainingVeterinarianTicks

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • Dog bite accident: What compensation are you entitled to?
    Dogs can cause serious injuries. Protect yourself and your wallet by understanding dog bite compensation laws. […]
  • What is canine pyometra? Understand causes, symptoms, treatment
    Canine pyometra is a serious uterine infection that affects around one in four unspayed female dogs. Spaying provides the best protection. […]
  • Can dogs eat potatoes? Are starchy vegetables safe for dogs?
    Can dogs eat potatoes? Keep your dog healthy by occasionally adding potatoes to its diet. Before changing your dog's diet, consult your vet. […]
  • Does my dog have Addison’s Disease? Understand symptoms, treatment
    Early detection and treatment are essential for canine Addison's Disease. With quick action, most dogs will make a full recovery. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.