Dogs Should Be Dogs
02 Aug 2010
It’s easy to turn your dog into a family member and forget that despite her froo-froo dress up clothes and the fact she sleeps on your bed and sometimes shares your food, she’s still a dog. But it’s important for her emotional well-being to make an effort to let her be a dog, especially when it comes to socializing with other members of the species.
Too often we bring home a new dog and welcome the puppy as a member of the family. But then the dog becomes a fixture of the home, and rarely sees people outside of the family except for the vet and groomer. Even though the dog connects with visitors who come to our home, their well-being requires that they mix with others dogs in an environment outside of your home.
Why? Yes, it is say the experts because dogs who are properly socialized early in their life tend to interact with others as friends, not foes. Dogs who are not permitted this needed connection are shown to be more aggressive.
Teaching your new puppy to make friends is not a difficult task, but you should wait until she has had all of her shots before taking the walk on the canine side. Puppies are more likely to be interested in meeting a new dog and curiosity will outweigh caution. Just like children, they don’t know what a stranger is.
A walk in a community park, or if you are lucky enough to have one in your area, a dog park is always a good place to meet other puppies and their walkers. Many dog parks have separate areas for puppies or small dogs. This is also a good opportunity for you to talk to other puppy enthusiasts to find out if their dog is interested in making friends. But also remember to play the field if the first connection goes sour, there are other dogs in the park. If your dog gets along especially well with another dog there, then talk to the owner about arranging future play dates for your pets.
If you don’t have a dog park in your area, look for local parks, paths, or even pet shops to take a stroll. But regardless of the venue, don’t leave the leash at home. Some dogs don’t take kindly to the leash, although pups tend to be more accepting. Although it’s tempting to rush in for a pet, always ask permission before going up to another person’s dog.
Use these same guidelines for grown dogs as well. If your older pet gets too excited around strangers, then reconsider the dog park plan. Instead look for a kennel or doggy day care that provides socialization for guests and talk with the operator about your concerns. Look for a center that can train your dog to get over his apprehension. In extreme cases a trainer or dog behaviorist may be needed, but socializing your dog is worth the effort.
You will discover that this extra effort will pay big dividends when your dog is in the presence of others. This is a must if you plan to bring home another puppy, ensuring that the new member of your family is welcomed by all.
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