Let’s Get Social

Dogs need friends just like people do.  So many pet owners think a fun puppy kindergarten class in Stone Park is the answer.  Puppy fun classes are enjoyable to see but they do not develop permanent socialization lessons.  They can create future problems.  When puppies are tumbling around you do not have control of them to correct improper behavior so they may even develop problems they didn’t have originally.

Socialization with other dogs does not start with housemates, neighbors, or other dogs that visit your Stone Park home on a regular basis.  It should begin with strange dogs they don’t know.  The most important time in the dog’s life to work on socialization is between 10 months and 24 months of age…and then continue for the rest of their lives.

Allow your dogs to play with other canines but be aware of dog parks in Stone Park (or anywhere).  You know how much socialization your dog has but you can’t know about someone else’s dog.  We now live in a litigious time and if 2 canines get into a fight and your dog wins even if he didn’t start it, you will be sued.

Take your dog to as many public places in Stone Park as you can and be sure they are in your control.  The only way a dog can learn is with life experiences where you can correct any bad behavior.  Try stores where they allow pets, go to drive throughs at the bank, try a reputable day care, attend group classes where socialization is stressed.

At Rock’s Positive K-9 Training we train pets with socialization problems all the often and it is stressed throughout all training aspects.  Check our class schedule and try one of our group training sessions.