If you have read any of my articles on socialization you have
surely read my information concerning the period of socialization for a
dog. That period in case you missed it is from birth to 20 weeks of age.
During
this period we expose the new puppy to adults, children and other dogs
in strange new places. If you don't your dog may very well never be
socialized and begin to show fear or aggression somewhere between 12 and
24 months of age.
But what if you dog was never socialized to
begin with is there any hope of having a friendly well-adjusted dog? Yes
and no. There are many factors to consider including the breed, the age
and whether or not the dog has already started showing aggression.
Some
breeds like Rotties, Dobies, Shepherds and Pits may never be socialized
if they missed the 20 week window and have started showing aggression.
However even some of those can be taught how to behave and be sociable.
Other
breeds like labs, goldens and border collies are normally considered to
be friendly dogs and most can be brought around even if they were not
socialized by 20 weeks.
Of course the younger the dog is the
better socialization will be for an adult dog. Has the dog started
showing aggression, if not that is even better and always easier that
try to help an aggressive fearful dog.
So how do we socialize
these older dogs? Get them out and about. Get them around as many people
as possible if they are not aggressive and to new places as well. At
the same time that you are socializing the adult dog you should also be
doing some good obedience training to establish the dog master
relationship so that the dog knows you are the pack leader.
If
your dogs have already started showing fear and some aggression you can
still get them out so that they get used to having strangers in the area
but not right next to them. As the process gets better you can actually
move closer and closer to the people. You can make sure that strangers
are safe by using a basket muzzle. The basket muzzle will allow your
dogs to pant, drink and pick up treats from people that are helping you
with this process.
Socialization is important and should continue
for the life of the dog. Just remember to do it early if possible for
best results.
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