Let’s Get Social

Dogs need friends just like their owners do.  So many pet owners think a fun puppy kindergarten class in Lake in the Hills is the answer.  Puppy fun classes are enjoyable to watch but they do not develop permanent socialization lessons.  They can create future problems.  When puppies are playing you do not have control of them to correct poor behavior so they may even develop problems they didn’t have to start off with.

Socialization with other dogs does not start with other dogs living in the house, dogs living next door, or other canines that visit your Lake in the Hills house on a regular basis.  It should begin with canines they don’t know.  The most critical 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 Lake in the Hills (or anywhere).  You know how much socialization your dog has but you never know about another dog.  We now live in a litigious society 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 Lake in the Hills 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 local fast food restaurant, try a reputable day care, go to group classes where socialization is stressed.

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