Helping your dog to socialize with other dogs and other people is crucial to teaching your pooch about the world and what behaviour is acceptable. Socialization helps your faithful friend to become aware of their surroundings and thus less fearful of situations they aren’t as familiar with. Socialization doesn’t mean taking your dog to every local place you can find, nor does it mean forcing your pet into situations that make them uncomfortable. It is a process that your pooch should be eased into – a fun process in which they have freedom, to minimise their fears and to help their confidence levels grow!
Research suggests that socilaizing your pup within the first 3-4 months of their life can have the biggest positive impact, as this is when they’re most likely to stick to what they’ve learnt and is the easiest time to teach them.
So, what are the key benefits of socialisation?
1. Building confidence
One of the main benefits is that social dogs have higher confidence levels and are less likely to let their fears and anxiety get the better of them. If they aren’t introduced to new sights, sounds, smells, people, dog breeds, you will often be left with a timid and fearful pooch.
2. Easy to groom
It has been proven that social dogs are a lot easier to groom than anxious dogs… which makes the groomer’s life easier but also ensures your pooch is comfortable too! A new experience, such as being groomed, can cause dogs to be anxious. Grooming is such an important aspect of your pet’s life, that making sure they are happy in that new environment is absolutely crucial.
3. Minimising vet phobias
Whether it be a check-up, a vaccination or medical attention is required, it’s very common for dogs to be anxious upon arrival at the vets. The hands-on treatment from the vet, who is effectively a stranger to your pooch, can be extremely frightening for them. Research has shown that dogs that have been socialised and frequently introduced to new environments will not be as fearful of the vets as dogs who are not social. A social dog will have a happier experience… also making the job of the vet less challenging!
4. Travelling
Perhaps you’re heading on a summer holiday this year, with your pooch? A dog that is well-socialised will be more inclined to jump into a car and sustain a long car journey without problems. Whether it’s a trip round the block or you’re travelling across the country with your furry friend for a getaway, social dogs are easier in the car!
The importance of socialisation for dogs is clearly crucial, which is why doggy day care is a great place to get your pooch started. Contact us if you’d like to find out more about The Woof Retreat, we’d love to hear from you!
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