Socialization is more than just teaching your dog to get along with other dogs or with other people. It is basically helping your dog to get accustomed to its new environment and to anything new which it might encounter. This will help ensure that your dog will be well-adjusted and so that he or she can develop healthy responses to the surrounding stimulus.
What is the Purpose of Socialization
Socialization will help your dog to relax in a variety of situations. It is important that your dog is not edgy or nervous, especially when encountering new people or new situations. When your dog gets excited, he or she may react in a hyperactive or anxious manner.
Extensive socialization has been likened to or equated to desensitization which is said to be a lifetime process for dogs. When you socialize your dog, it is far easier and safer for you to take him out to the public and you have no apprehensions that he or she may cause harm to someone. Dogs who have not been properly socialized are prone to injuring others. If you do not socialize your dog and he or she injures someone, this may lead to a penalty for both you and your dog.
What is the First Step that You can take?
The primary step that you can take towards socialization is by having your dog attend obedience classes. Make sure that you give the necessary vaccinations for your dog first. Your dog will be around new people and other dogs. The aim of obedience class is so that the dog can establish a healthy and positive bond not only with you but also with its handler. This bond can serve as the basis for an easier training period which will also enable your dog to learn faster.
You can also socialize him or her yourself. You can have a supply of treats handy. Taking your dog out for a walk and letting him get used to the noises and sights of the environment is a big step. When your dog responds calmly, you can then reward him or her. Remember to do this immediately so that your dog links pleasure with that particular behavior. If your dog reacts negatively, you can try ignoring the dog first while he or she redirects his or her attention to something else. Of course, you may need to soothe your dog or even take him or her home if his or her negative reaction becomes a bit too extreme.
A Few More things that you should dog
As much as possible, take your dog with you. Unless it is explicitly stated that pets are not allowed in a certain venue or activity (or if it is clear enough that you cannot bring animals, such as in movie houses, for instance) or if it is really not practical at all, then you may want to tag your dog along. The more your dog is exposed to what is around him or her, the more he or she will most likely be able to develop good responses especially when unpleasant surprises crop up (such as a car honking its horn too loudly).
Socialization may take a bit of patience and a lot of reassurance at first but with time, your dog should slowly get used to his or her surroundings. He or she will also get acquainted with people you know or people you frequently come into contact with. This ensures that if ever you are having guests over in your house, then your dog will also be more likely relaxed.
