Socialisation is often a misunderstood concept when it comes to our dogs. Socialising your puppy or new rescue dog does not necessarily mean allowing your dog to meet everyone and everything straight away. It’s a human tendency to want to show the world your new dog, but that is not the same as showing your dog the world! Resist the temptation to let your new canine become a magnet for human attention. The last thing you want to do is let him get overwhelmed and frightened and develop anxiety or stress related behaviour problems.
Instead, allowing your new dog to interact with new situations, people, other dogs and experiences from a distance that they are comfortable with and at their own pace gives them a chance to form positive associations. Using praise and food rewards allows them to pair new experiences with something good and something they enjoy. It also allows them to build confidence in themselves and your bond with them. Never force your dog to interact with something they don’t like and are uncomfortable with.
Familiarise yourself with knowing when your dog is uncomfortable
or experiencing stress or anxiety and when they need to be removed from a situation. For example, most people don’t know that a dog who yawns may be displaying symptoms of fear and anxiety. Or that when a dog shows his belly, he isn’t always asking for a belly rub. Understanding canine body language improves the bond between dogs and the people who love them.
