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SOCIALIZATION - THE LATEST RAGE IN DOG OWNERSHIPSocialization has got to be the biggest buzz word in dog training today. It is also arguably the most important aspect of dog ownership. However, the concept is not widely understood. So, let's break it down: WHAT IS SOCIALIZATION?Socialization means getting used to environmental elements through exposure. Have you ever had a Snow White experience where you are out in nature and the birds fly down and land gently on you while you pet the animals of the forest? No? Ok, have you ever had even one wild animal come up and try to make friends with you? Curious and unassuming animals in the wild don't tend to survive to produce off-spring. On the other hand, an animal freaking out at every rock and tree wouldn't get too far either. So, how does the animal determine what is and is not a threat? The answer is that when the animals are first born there is a window of time where they are more curious and less afraid. We call this a ?socialization window?. This window of time is when they are most easily able to habituate to their environment through exposure. In other words, what the animal is exposed to during the socialization window they tend to accept as a normal, non threatening part of the environment. (Provided they have continued exposure throughout their life, of course.) WHAT DOES ALL THIS ACADEMIC STUFF MEAN TO THE AVERAGE PUPPY OWNER?It means if your puppy doesn't get sufficient exposure to an element of the environment (children, for example) before the socialization window closes, the risk of fear responses (such as aggression) toward children runs higher for your dog as an adult. WHY DOES SOCIALIZATION MATTER TO ME?Socialized dogs feel less stress and anxiety (a plus in and of itself). Stress and anxiety lead to many undesirable behaviors such as:
Therefore, a well socialized dog is less likely to engage in these behaviors (good for the owners) and, a dog's quality of life is improved simply by the decreased stress (good for the dog). A dog's quality of life is improved even more because a well socialized dog can be extended many more privileges and freedoms. For example, when company with children come to the house, a dog beautifully socialized to children can spend the evening hanging out with the ?pack? rather than locked in a crate or separate room. Well socialized dogs get invited to back yard barbeques, soccer games and all kinds of other fun engagements but under socialized dogs stay at home while their owners have all the fun. WHAT ABOUT AN OLDER DOG? CAN THEY BE SOCIALIZED?Yes. It is still a worthwhile endeavor to socialize your older dog. However, your progress will be much slower than with a puppy. Take things very slowly as your dog may have already developed a fear response. Trying to rush the socialization process for an older dog could result in confirming your dog's suspicion that these things are scary. NEVER INSIST A DOG APPROACH SOMEONE THEY FIND SCARY.They may become so afraid they feel they have to bite to protect themselves. Instead, have the stranger throw treats or a toy to the dog. Eventually the dog will understand strangers mean good things. PLACES TO BRING YOUR DOG FOR SOCIALIZATION:Where ever you go your puppy will draw a crowd. Being the center of attention may not be your favorite thing, but bite the bullet and do it for your pup!
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