| When you bring a new dog home, you'll need to | | | | obedience instructor). Over time, have other |
| take steps to socialize him. It's an ongoing effort | | | | friends stop by. Ask them to do so in pairs, if |
| over your dog's life and is a critical component of | | | | possible, so your dog doesn't feel overwhelmed. |
| his development. A dog that hasn't been exposed | | | | By doing this, you continue the education process |
| to others (whether people or other dogs) poses a | | | | whereby your dog learns that people who are |
| risk. Dogs can become uncomfortable or agitated | | | | unfamiliar to him are typically non-threatening. |
| quickly. Factors such as loud noises, other dogs, | | | | Tip #3: Training On The Go |
| and even people wearing hats can cause your | | | | Grab your dog's leash and take him for a walk. If |
| dog to become alarmed. In that state, they're | | | | possible, start in a sparsely populated area. A few |
| unpredictable. | | | | people walking their dogs as cars race by can |
| Eventually, you'll want to take your dog with you | | | | provide your dog with the loud stimuli he needs to |
| to the park, beach, friend's house, or any place | | | | grow accustomed to the noise and activity. As |
| where others might be. Below, we'll give you 3 | | | | your dog grows more comfortable, take him for |
| quick tips for encouraging your dog to mingle well | | | | walks in more densely populated areas with more |
| with others. | | | | traffic. Doing this will desensitize his natural instinct |
| Tip #1: Obedience Class | | | | to become alarmed. |
| Whether you're trying to socialize a puppy or a | | | | Lifetime Socialization |
| fully-grown adult dog, enroll him into an obedience | | | | By using the tips above, you can gradually |
| class. He will be exposed to other people and dogs | | | | transform your dog into a sociable pet that is |
| in a controlled environment. Plus, your dog will | | | | friendly with others. If your dog resists the |
| learn that others do not necessarily pose a threat | | | | efforts by barking, sniffing, or jumping on people, |
| to you. As a result, he'll learn to remain relaxed in | | | | try to react subtly and refocus his attention on |
| the presence of those who are unfamiliar to him. | | | | you. Try to encourage him to focus on something |
| The earlier you do this, the better. | | | | other than that which prompted the undesirable |
| Tip #2: Inviting Friends Over | | | | behavior. Also, it is important that you reward |
| Invite 1 or 2 friends over to your house. This is | | | | your dog generously for good behavior. Over |
| an opportunity to socialize your dog in an | | | | time, your dog will become the companion that |
| uncontrolled environment (that is, without an | | | | you can take anywhere you go. |