How to socialize a dog without going to the dog park?

Take your dog to group training classes. This is one way you can socialize your dog in a structured environment. He can learn a thing or two too. 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. This way, they can see a variety of different people and different activities. 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. Some daycares provide training and socialization activities. Look for a local dog owner meet up around your area. You can find local meet up groups in Facebook. Invite your friends with other dogs and have a playdate. This is ideal too if your puppy hasn’t been vaccinated. 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. If your dog is not vaccinated and want to socialize your dog, you can do minimal contact activities. One thing you can do is have your dog sit by the front porch so that they can watch and see other people. You can also take your dog for a drive around.

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. I don’t know what my other options are. Am I right that she needs to play with other dogs and people or am I making this harder on myself than necessary. When we walk her she sees/ walk past another dog she tries to play, but I know that this is a separate issue.