Proper socialization strategies will teach your dog how to act around other animals and people. All pet owners should know what to do and what to avoid when socializing their dogs, so they will grow into happy, friendly and safe companions. The veterinarians at Countryside Veterinary Service Middlefield have shared their guide for getting started below.

Do:

Start as puppies.

The best socialization happens in the first three months of a puppy’s life. Learning new behaviors becomes harder as they age, so it’s easier for them to be well-adjusted if they’ve been around people and dogs their entire life. Start with friendly people who know how to act around dogs, then move them into meeting other dogs and children.

Continue as adults.

Puppies need socialization, but so do adult dogs. Continue to schedule play dates with other dogs as they get older, so they don’t forget how to behave. Take them to public places where they can be around strangers and children. You’ll build a firm foundation while they are a puppy, and then you should reinforce positive behaviors throughout adulthood for a well-behaved and confident dog.

Don’t:

Overwhelm them.

Too much at once can instill fear in a dog that will be hard to overcome. As you start them out, begin with friendly adults and meeting one dog at a time. You can take them to play with large groups of dogs or energetic children once they start feeling more confident. Reward them with treats and praise when they are brave, but don’t punish them for being scared.  

Forget pet vaccinations.

Vaccinations will keep your dog safe as they meet other dogs and enter new environments. Strictly follow the vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian, as putting it off leaves your furry friend vulnerable to harmful diseases. Don’t take them to the dog park or let them play with un-vaccinated dogs until they’ve finished their full schedule.

No matter how old your dog is, taking them into the animal clinic for professional care from a veterinarian will help keep them happy and healthy. The team at Countryside Veterinary Service Middlefield and their other locations provide top-notch emergency and routine preventive care. Visit them online to learn about each of their locations. Call any of their six convenient locations below for the best in veterinary care.

Turkeyfoot Family Pet Center in Akron, OH
Stonewall Veterinary Hospital in Garrettsville, OH
Countryside Animal Hospital in Kinsman, OH
Middlefield Veterinary Clinic in Middlefield, OH
All Creatures Animal Hospital in Warren, OH
Jamestown Veterinary Clinic in Jamestown, PA