What Socialization Means for Different Dog Breeds
This quiet moment looking out the door is brought to you through careful socialization
It’s so important to socialize your dog or puppy that not doing so will definitely result in behavior issues later on, but most people don’t realize that the reasons are different for different breeds.
For instance, people comment all the time that they would love a Chihuahua, if only they were guaranteed of getting one just like my little Leon, but people don’t realize I put in a lot of time to get Leon to the happy and well adjusted Chihuahua that he is now. He wasn’t born to love strangers and other dogs…I had to work on it with him. Because they are natural watch dogs, it’s difficult for them to feel safe in unfamiliar environments, that why socialization can mean the difference between a yippy, biting Chihuahua and a well mannered, calm one.
The same is true for other breeds, but for different reasons. Any of the guarding dogs, for instance, need to be well socialized to accept strangers and unfamiliar dogs into his or her space. Many Spaniels lean towards being very timid, if not introduced to different types of situations and people. Even Labradors need to be well socialized in order to learn “manners” like, not jumping up on people…especially children.
So, if you are looking to adopt a dog or a puppy, remember that one of the most time consuming, and most rewarding parts of having a well adjusted dog, is socializing. Take the dog everywhere that you can and get him or her used to being a part of the community. Your dog will be much happier, and she will become a good ambassador for her breed.
