Sadly puppy socialization is a step often missed by many owners. People either fail to recognize why it is so important, or simply do not know how to go about it correctly. Puppy socialization is important, without it, you will eventually have an unsocialized dog. Dogs who are not properly socialized are the ones who bite, who are frightened around strangers, or are problems at the veterinarian, groomer, or dog park.

A puppies first lesson is taught to it by its mother. Mother dogs teach puppies some basic skills about how to behave, this is one of the things that often becomes a problem for pups who are weaned and removed from the litter too soon. Therefore it is a good idea to leave a puppy with its mother until at least seven or eight weeks of age.

There are many ways of socializing a puppy, the first, and often the best, is by taking it to formal puppy socialization classes, these often held at dog obedience schools. A puppy can attend classes once it is fully vaccinated, around 12 weeks of age. In these classes the puppy learns how to interact with other dogs.

Sadly many owners of small breed dogs neglect this step, they think their tiny pooch either does not need these classes, or they pick it up at the first sign of a bigger dog approaching. Such an action actually reinforces the dog to be fearful.

Dogs will discipline other dogs very clearly letting them know when they go too far. In a formal class instructors are available to break up any potential real problems, but they also know that a dog must be allowed to learn these skills on their own.

Beyond proper lessons an owner can teach socialization by exposing their puppy to different situations. Reward the puppy for the right behavior, and correct bad behavior. Remember, your puppy should not leave your yard until it is fully vaccinated.

Puppies, and dogs in general, tend to respond more to positive reinforcement, treats or praise. However, they also learn from watching you. If you behave like a situation is concerning, the puppy will too. As such owners who pick up their puppies when a person, or other dog, approaches, have trained the puppy to be fearful. If you allow the puppy to meet the person, or other dog, and only act if needed, you have taught the puppy that there is nothing to fear. Praise the puppy for being good, offer a treat, and continue on. Reward good behavior, but never reward fear.

Making sure your puppy understands basic commands like 'Sit', 'No', and its name, will also help with socialization, as it allows you to refocus your pup on you if there is a problem.

Failure to socialize a pup is one of the reasons dogs get into fights, or are abandoned at the animal shelters. Unsocialized dogs are fearful of other dogs and strangers, thus making them more difficult at the vet and groomer, also putting their lives at risk if they get lost and resist capture. If you own a puppy make sure you have the time to socialize it correctly.

Learn more about this author, Brenda Nelson.
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