Socializing your dog is incredibly important, as it teaches them what is the appropriate behavior and expectation for any given situation.
How Can I Help?
- Go hard during your dog’s first month with you. Make sure you set aside time and energy for some intense socialization right out of the box.
- Meet new friends! Other friendly dogs can help ease your canine companion out of his shell. Just be careful and take your time when introducing them to your dog.
- Don’t mollycoddle your dog when they are frightened. Only praise and lavish attention on them when they are being brave.
- Have people yawn repeatedly alongside you while socializing your dog to strangers and new people, as a signal for them to stay calm.
- Get your friend to assist you while running your dog through socialization exercises. Have them sit with their back to your dog with a treat and keep their eyes on the floor. Each time your dog approaches them for a treat, praise and reward your canine companion.
- Teach your guests and friends how to pet your dog in a way that doesn’t scare your canine companion.
- Consult a canine behavioral therapist for further help. Perhaps further training by professionals may be necessary.
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