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.

Many times we bring home a puppy and the new family member never gets acquainted with anyone outside the family, other than visits to the vet and groomer, which aren’t usually the highlight of a doggy day. 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.

Is this really necessary? 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.

Socializing a puppy is easy, although you should wait until she’s completed her puppy vaccines, including rabies, before taking her out into the world.  Puppies are more likely to be interested in meeting a new dog and curiosity will outweigh caution.  The puppy is still too young discern the difference between our acquaitances and total strangers.

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.

The same general rules apply to an older dog, although if your dog shows anxiety or fear, or reacts aggressively to the approach of a strange dog, then a busy dog park might not be the best option.  You might be better off trying a canine day care center or kennel that can offer supervised social interactions for Rover.  Find one that will help your dog address his fears so that he can learn to be a happy canine. If you believe that his aggession has escalated to the point where he could cause someone harm, consider finding a qualified teacher to work with your dog.

It means happier dog walks, easier trips to the vet, and if you decide to add another dog at some point, a smoother transition for both of you.

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