Rhan Irish Wolfhounds

What is socialization - and how do I do it?

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Socialization is normally described as introducing a puppy to the people, animals, and objects that will be in his environment. But it goes beyond introducing to familiarizing � helping your puppy learn how to interact with or respond to these new things appropriately and without fear. The purpose of socialization is �to set boundaries on what a puppy can and cannot do. It teaches him to perform in society and to be accepted.�

To come up with ideas for socializing your puppy, consider what things your own everyday life involves that his � whether you got him from a breeder or at a shelter or rescue � probably hasn�t. In the home, this can include the vacuum cleaner, stairs (carry up and down until old enough to do stairs alone), his grooming tools (brush, comb, and nail clippers), running water, fans, mirrors, and appliances that make sudden, loud noises (hair dryer, blender, garbage disposal, etc.).

Outside the home, numerous socialization opportunities await you and your dog. From umbrellas, people wearing hats, men with facial hair, and large crowds of people to wheelchairs, cars, and bicycles, new things are around every corner. The more of them you can introduce your dog to when he is a puppy, the more confident he will be as an adult.

Don�t forget to introduce your puppy to children, whose high-pitched voices and unexpected movements can frighten adult dogs that haven�t had the chance to get familiar with them. Closely supervise meetings between puppies and children to make them a positive experience for both. �One of the best sources of socialization will come from a 4- to 5-year-old supervised child.�

 "Children will lie on the ground and play with the puppy. They play like another puppy.�

Coming up with people and places for socialization opportunities can require creativity, but the �how� is simple. Use treats and a lot of praise, touch, and gentle play to convince your puppy that the new sight, smell, person, or situation is fun. End each introduction on a positive note, perhaps with a treat, affection, or short play session with a favorite toy.