Puppy Socialization
Puppies learn extremely quickly and there are several things that need to be done to make sure that they grow into confident adult dogs. One of the most important things for puppies is making sure that they are properly socialized. The best time for early socialization is when the dog is between 8 and 20 weeks. Although that early socialization is important it doesn't stop there. Dogs should continue to be socialized until they are around the age of two years.
Socialization is about exposing your puppy slowly and gradually to different people, places things, noises, dogs and other animals. It is equally important that each new person or situation be presented in such a way that the dog does not become fearful. A large part of the goal of socialization is to build up the dog's confidence and trust so be careful about how you present things to your puppy.
The first step in socialization is get your dog used to you and having you handle her. This includes you grooming and bathing the dog as well as teaching the dog that being touched all over. The way to do this is to reinforce no movement from the dog while you are touching them. Once that has been accomplished you should progress to introducing the dog to strangers. Begin at a distance and slowly allow her to get closer to people, eventually allowing them to touch her.
To introduce your dog to new people go to a place where there are several people and stay about 50 feet away. As long as the dog remains calm you can approach other people slowly. If the dog reacts by becoming frightened or backing up don't console her. Consoling the dog simply reinforces that they should be frightened of strangers; instead you should do absolutely nothing. Once the dog relaxes praise her. Make sure the dog has relaxed before you praise her. Keep doing this with your dog in short sessions and she should eventually accept strangers.
It is also very important to expose your puppy to many other dogs. This should be done through puppy classes and through a puppy play group if that is a possibility for you and your dog. Be sure that the dogs you first introduce your dog too are all friendly. You don't want your dog to fear other dogs so it is very important to know all the dogs you first introduce your dog too. Once your dog is used to other dogs you should to continue to introduce him to new dogs. Socialization is a lifelong process.