Ongoing socialization is extremely
important to prevent behavior problems. Socialization is especially important
before the age of 6 months, but should also throughout your dog’s lifetime.
Gentle socialization plays a huge role in preventing aggression and fearful
behavior. Lack of socialization can lead to hyperactive behavior, barking,
shyness and aggression. The younger you begin socializing your dog, the better,
but all dogs can be gradually brought into new and even initially fearful
situations and learn to enjoy them. Socialization is a lifelong process. For
example, if your dog does not see any dogs for months or years at a time, you
would expect his behavior to change around
them when he does finally see them again.
How to expose your dog to something
new or something he is wary of:
- ·Make sure that you remain calm and up -beat and keep his leash loose, if he is wearing one.
- ·Expose him gradually to what he is fearful of, never forcing him. Allow him to retreat if he wants too.
