How do I socialize my dog without a dog park?

She does play with one of our neighbors dog but it’s just one dog. We also have 2 shih tzes but they don’t want anything to do with the puppy. When we walk her she sees/ walk past another dog she tries to play, but I know that this is a separate issue. I know from the past few weeks of research that socialization is very important for puppies up to 16 weeks old. During my research I learn that it is important for puppies to play with other dogs to learn the bite initiation, is this true? She is very good with people she shows no aggression but excitement.

Take your dog to group training classes, this is one way you can socialize your dog in a structured environment. For puppies, you can take them to puppy-kindergarten classes, these classes teach basic obedience and socialization. Walking your dog or puppy is the simplest yet most effective way to socialize your dog to the community. But be intentional with your walks, if your dog is already familiar with the route you usually take, try taking another route, introduce your dog to a new walking area, or change up the schedule, maybe there are different people out in the afternoon as opposed to the morning. Another way to socialize your dog with structure is taking your dog to a doggy daycare, just make sure that you’re taking your dog to a reputable daycare. Look for a local dog owner meet up around your area, you can find local meet up groups in Facebook, there are tons of different groups— whether it’s a ‘Golden retriever meet up group’ or ‘Puppy meet up group’. Invite your friends with other dogs and have a playdate, this is ideal too if your puppy hasn’t been vaccinated, you want to keep interactions or exposure to a minimum. Going out for a hike or trail walking is a great way to socialize your dog to a different environment, you are seeing different people, places and things. Attend dog friendly outdoor events, from festivals to farmer’s markets— these are events in which your dog can observe people, sniff around and just be exposed do different things.

Make sure you stay calm yourself. If you are nervous around strangers or don’t trust your dog around other dogs, then your dog will pick up on those cues quickly. Taking your dog for walks is an excellent way for them to meet, interact with, and see others. They will encounter other humans as well as dogs on their walks, and they will also be exposed to noises from automobiles and events around your neighborhood. This is a great way to socialize your dog with children, too, especially if you don’t have any kids of your own. Introduce People You Know, such as friends and extended family members, to your dog in a neutral place, like a park or the sidewalk. Bring Treats with you at all times when you’re out with your dog, so you can reward them for every small positive interaction they experience with humans or other dogs.