Dog Socialization

[evelyna]

My dog is not too social.
I started taking him on walks in my townhouse community.
At first we visited a yard with 3 dogs. I could tell they were friendly and wanted to socialize.
My dog did not like them at first. But I kept walking my dog to the yard with the 3 doggies.
After about the third I said"Let's go visit your puppy dog friends." To my surprise he walked me to the yard and from that point on was friendly to the dogs.
I think this may work for people who may be trying to introduce a new pet into their home.
If the introduction was gradual with a few visits beforehand. It may be an easier transition for all involved.

[Rottweilerlvr]

I do a number of things that got my dogs extremely social... My ultimate favorite social gathering for the dogs is on Saturday(when it's the busiest) take my dogs to PetsMart or PetCo because there is a over abudance on puppies, dogs, children, cats, adults, birds, fish, etc. (and people won't bring a dog there if he's dog aggressive so you really don't have to worry about that)And they love it...

Some other places I take them:

1- parks/dog parks
2- neighborhood walking
3- sidewalk of roads that's heavily traveled by cars
4- military base
5- major downtown of city( ie- Miami Beach, South Beach)

For me, I don't want my dogs to freak out at anything, I want nothing to surprise them... so there is alot of walking. These dogs can go ANYWHERE, a F-16 taking off doesn't faze them, the crowded sidewalks of Miami Beach is nothing, parks are fun, cars are boring, etc.

The main thing, is to keep on working at it.... Do lots of walking and correct any bad behavior immediately... and have fun...

Linnea

[Uilleam]

My neighbor has a puppy only 3 weeks older than mine so I'll take Fenway over there every other day to play and wrestle with him. I also take Fenway to a popular local dog park with lots of parties and fundraisers.

[Patch O' Pits]

http://www.discussdogs.com/forum/showthread.php?t=759&highlight=training+socializing+puppy