Tips to Make Your Dog More Sociable

Whether you have a rescue dog that is learning to trust humans or a new pup, you need to make sure you teach him how to socialize. Since it can be hard to know how to do that, here are 5 ideas to get you started. It is important to keep in mind that you should never push your dog into a situation that makes them stress or even scared, this will just cause problems. Instead, make sure all new experiences are positive and if you need help, consult a certified professional dog trainer.

1.) Be with Friends

For the really nervous dog or puppy who has not had all its vaccines yet, start at home. Invite friends who are quiet and dog-savvy over first. For dogs that are scared of strangers, better start with girl friends and then try to find soft-spoken guys who are smaller, as they will be easier for your dog to meet. Be sure to have plenty of toys and treats on hand so your dog pairs strangers with good things.

2.) Walking in the Park

Parks are great because of all the different people your dog can meet. To begin with, go mid-week when kids are in school and fewer people will be at the park. Again, take plenty of toys and treats. Watch for signs of stress and try to leave before your dog has had "enough" or bored.

3.) New Walking Spots

It's easy to take your dog on the same walk around your own neighbourhood every day, but it's not the best thing for your dog. Instead, take time to drive your dog somewhere and walk him there - a new neighbourhood, a new city block, a new park. Doesn't matter where, what does matter are the different smells, sights and people he will meet.

4.) Community Events or Social Events

Be updated for any events that are happening in your community where dogs are welcome. They do not need to be a pet event-a lot of "art in the parks," charity walks and even some summer movie events allow dogs to come. These are great events to take your dog to if they are pretty well-adjusted and just need more social time. In time you will see how your dogs are more sociable than you are!

5.) Vet Office and Groomers

Just take a moment and think how you feel when you have to visit the dentist? Not a great feeling. This is what your dogs feel when going to the Vet or at the grooming shop. The Vet office and groomers are scary places due to the smells, other animals and strangers that have to touch your dog. Help him by going to these places for social visits where he just gets attention and treats from the staff. This helps relieve the stress and gets your dog more comfortable with these types of places.

To sum up all of these; it is very important for your Dog to be people friendly and exposed to the outside playground to let them feel comfortable being in the crowd. After all they are man's best friend, they always belong to us.

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