You will hear this often, from the rescue, breeder or shelter, your kennel club or dog obedience instructor and even the vet – you must socialize your dog! Even though the most important and dire time to socialize a canine is during his two fear periods in puppyhood, a dog continues to learn about the world around him throughout his entire life. This means even adult dogs can be socialized, but it will take more time, effort, and empathy on your part to help him past his fears, reactive behaviors, and any other issues you may see in him due to lack of socialization.
What Does Socialization Do?
Socialization is more than just helping a dog learn to be friendly around other people and dogs. It is far more than learning to communicate with other canines so that he can be safe at the dog park or play with your neighbor’s pets and kids. Socialization helps your dog become comfortable and learn the proper way to react, or not react, so certain situations, environments, and even objects. Everything from ground and floor textures to common household items such as baseball caps and umbrellas are all a part of the socialization schedule all dogs should go through during puppy hood.