How do I train my dog to be more social?

Puppies should be cuddled and handled daily by as many different people as possible. Introduce your puppy to several new people every day, keeping the interactions pleasant and unthreatening. Focus especially on setting up pleasant encounters with unfamiliar men and well-behaved children. Puppies who miss out on these experiences may never learn to be comfortable around unfamiliar things, paving the way for anxiety, fear, and aggression later on in life. This period allows puppies to be exposed to a wide variety of sights, sounds, smells, and sensations without becoming fearful. Acclimate your puppy to lots of different sounds, being careful not to overwhelm him with too much noise too fast. Teach your puppy to be alone, puppies should learn to tolerate being completely separate from other people and animals every day to avoid developing separation anxiety. The greatest window of learning in a dog’s life starts around 3 weeks of age and closes between 16 and 20 weeks.

One of the easiest ways to begin socializing an older dog is to go on walks in public together. Always make sure your dog is on a leash that is properly secured. Walking is a great way to take in the sights and smells of new places. When you frequent the same places, your dog should begin to feel more at ease there. If you encounter a situation where your dog is uncomfortable, turn around and go home – back to your dog’s safe place. A great next step in socializing your adult dog is to introduce them to another adult dog. Keep both dogs on a leash when they meet, to ensure you have control in case the meeting doesn't go well. Reward your dog for positive interactions with their new furry friend. If your dog has trouble around other people, a great next step is to introduce them to new people perhaps without adding another dog to the mix. Remember never to force your dog to stay in a situation where they’re clearly uncomfortable, anxious, or afraid. It’s never too late to socialize an adult dog. The most important things to remember are to go at your dog’s pace and keep things positive. If your adult dog lacks experience in the world around you, take him outside and begin exploring.