SOCIALISATION
What it means and why your dog needs it!
All dogs are born afraid of almost everything. Proper socialisation removes this fear. Without proper socialisation that fear will remain, giving you a nervous, overactive dog. When we refer to ‘socialisation’, we are saying that all dogs must be exposed to as many and varied experiences as possible in a positive manner. For example; meeting and playing with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment.
NOTE: Dogs that live with another dog will NOT automatically be relaxed around all other dogs.
The first sixteen weeks of your dogs life is the called the “ Critical Socialisation Period” It is necessary for your pup to receive sociaisation in tbis period. Learning in this period is permanent and will remain with your dog for life. Experiences both good and Bad !
An intensive and varied size, age and breed based socialisation program is needed to integrate your dog into society in a safe and responsible manner. Without this socialisation your dog will be fearful or stressed with many day to day experiences. The subsequent stress may result in confusion on the dog’s behalf.
*YOUR DOG NEEDS MANY AND VARIED EXPERIENCES Here is a list of common experiences for a dog living in the suburbs: .Traffic movement and noise. Eg. Motorbikes, trains, trucks etc.
- .Trips in the car .
- .People of all ages. Eg. Young children, old people, people in hats, sunglasses etc.
- .Skateboards, Rollerblades, Bikes.
- .Dogs, Cats, Horses. .Large crowds.
- .Shopping trolleys and Wheelchairs.
- .Prams and Pushers.
- .Lawnmowers and Whipper Snippers.
- .Vacuum cleaners and other household noises.
- .Water -Lakes, Creeks, Beach.
Look around you and try to see things through your dog’s eyes. Don’t assume your dog will automatically cope with new experiences because unless he has been socialised to unusual objects and environments he will almost certainly overreact.
