Getting an Australian terrier puppy is an exciting, happy time for you and your family. Everyone wants to hold, cuddle, and play with the newest family addition. Getting a dog is a big responsibility that includes making sure he is looked after properly and happy. The last thing you are probably thinking about is socializing and training your little Aussie.

Without properly socializing your puppy, he could become difficult, a burden to you, your family, and in social situations. It is important to start socializing your puppy at an early age because it makes a dramatic difference on how your Aussie turns out. A well-socialized Australian terrier can be included in family activities and go places because he knows how to act. You can socialize a dog at any age but young puppies between the ages of seven weeks and six months are very much like small child, innocent and curious. An Aussie puppy remembers what he learns from a very early age so exposing him to other people, sights, sounds, places, and animals, results in a less fearful, less aggressive, friendlier dog. Socializing your Aussie should continue until he is an adult.

One way to socialize your Aussie is to take him to puppy classes. This exposes your puppy to unfamiliar dogs, people, and surroundings and teaches him how to act and behave. The more you repeatedly expose your puppy to strange situations, strangers, and surrounding, the more confident and less fearful he becomes. This also strengthens your bond because your terrier learns that it is safe to trust you. Another great way to socialize your Aussie puppy is by having him play with other Aussie puppies and even adult dogs that are well socialized and friendly. Some communities have puppy kindergarten or playschool classes that allow your puppy to socialize and learn some basic obedience while having fun. Unless there is a serious fight or roughness that is hurting a puppy, owners should just watch and enjoy seeing their dog interact with the others. It does not take long before the pack hierarchy is apparent with some dogs being more dominant and others more submissive. This is a great way to discover your Australian terrier puppy's personality trait, which is helpful when it comes to more advanced training.

Socializing your Aussie at home begins with exposing him to new things and experiences in a non-threatening manner. If your dog is hesitant going near a certain object, never force him but encourage the puppy instead. Introduce your puppy to new experiences such as a car ride, walking on different surfaces such as grass and cement, meeting neighbors, friendly dogs, older adults, and children. Everything will be a new experience for your puppy but always make it as positive and as much fun as possible. The more you expose your Aussie to different activities, places, animals, and people, the calmer, more self-confident and easier he will be to live with. A socialized, well-trained Australian terrier is a pleasure to have.