Having a puppy at home is very much like having a bundle of joy. Your cute and adorable pup will be your family’s new source of happiness and positivity. Its charm and attempts to play with you and everyone at home will surely incite good vibes. However, it should be noted that not all puppies are automatically and easily social. There are some puppies that will feel anxious when put in a new environment. Similarly, your other pets may feel stressed and anxious with the presence of a new family member. When this issue is not addressed as soon as possible, there is a great chance that your puppy will develop some behavioral problems in the long run.
In this regard, it is important that you learn to socialize your puppy as soon as possible. You ought not to delay it. Otherwise, managing your puppy will eventually become a major headache and source of problems. Luckily, there are some ways you can make socializing much easier and more efficient. If it is your first time to socialize your puppy, here are some of the things you ought to keep in mind:
Knowing the Right Time
Knowing the right time for socializing your puppy can make a lot of difference. In this case, earlier will always be better. Delaying socializing may cause the puppy to have already received reinforcements from multiple sources of stimuli. Veterinarians and dog breeders recommend socializing puppies as early as they are seven weeks old. But, do not make the introduction to family and fellow pets abrupt, as this will cause them to feel stressed and anxious.
Stimulating Their Senses
Taking your puppy to your home is basically introducing them to a wide range of stimulants and eye-catching things. At first, let the puppy roam the home. Let it smell the surroundings and explore every nook and cranny of the space (just keep an eye out on it!). If it meets your other pets along the way, watch their reactions. If the reactions are friendly and amicable, encourage it further by exposing them to one another. Otherwise, don’t let them cross paths yet.
Taking Them Outdoors
When your puppy is already acquainted with the things at your home, and it is already comfortable with the surroundings, it is time to take it to the bigger world. You may want them to play outdoors. In this case, let the pups play at the park (frisbee, anyone?). While you are at it, you may want to ensure that your puppy is comfortable with their leash.
Enrolling in a Puppy School
Sometimes, you may feel confused about managing the behavior of your puppy. And if you feel that they are having a hard time acquainting with their surroundings, it makes sense that you should take them to a puppy school in Utah.
Socializing your puppy is one of the first things you need to do when onboarding a new pet at home. Doing so will prevent any behavioral problems that may happen. You also ensure that your puppy will be tame when faced with other pets and people. Overall, socializing your puppy will reduce your stress.
