Let’s Get Social

Dogs need friends just like people do.  So many dog owners think a cute puppy kindergarten class in Elm Grove 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 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, dogs living next door, or other canines that visit your Elm Grove 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 careful of dog parks in Elm Grove (or anywhere).  You know how much socialization your dog has but you never know about someone else’s 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 Elm Grove 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, attend group classes where socialization is stressed.

At Rock’s Positive K-9 Training we work with 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.