The breeder needs to start the puppy off with socialization training and you as the owner need to continue the training. Without the proper socializing skills, the puppy can become shy and this type of behavior can result in aggression. Any dog no matter what the breed is can be prone to aggression if they are shy or afraid of something. This type of behavior can start as early as two to three weeks of age. Puppies should be a part of the family and children need to learn how to behave around the puppies and what they can and cannot do.
Teach Children How To Socialize With The Dog
Socializing the dog is not only done with the dog, but also children need to learn how to play with the dog and how to act around the dog. If the dog feels the kids are afraid of them, this can cause an entirely new behavior problem. Teaching the dog how to play with kids and teaching the kids how to play with the dog is the first step to socializing the puppy. You do not want to put them together until they have been formally introduced and have learned the boundaries.
Teaching The Dog How To Socialize With The Children
When you introduce the puppy to children no matter what the age of the child, you have to be in the area as well. You will begin teaching the puppy not to jump, bite, and, in some cases, cease barking at the children. They should learn to play together in some way. One way to do this is to teach the puppy to play fetch with the child. Once the puppy learns to bring back the object and the child throws the object again, they are bonding and socialization skills are being established.
Socializing With Other Animals
If you have other animals, you want everyone to get along. You need to introduce new puppies to the family carefully. If the other animals are socialized, it makes it easier. Keeping the puppy under control is still needed. Some animals, no matter how well behaved they are, might resent a new member to the family. Take time to work with everyone and you should reassure all the members of the family that they are not being replaced. This is important not only for socialization, but also for bonding.
All Other Children And Animals
The more children and animals that your puppy meets will help them adjust to different circumstances. Puppy training classes help with some of these needs. Going to areas where kids are present can also help as long as the parents agree. If you have friends with children who visit regularly or even with other dogs, you should start socializing as early as possible so your new puppy feels this is a comfortable practice. If you wait until you think it is time, it may be too late. The sooner you start the easier it will be for the puppy to adjust and accept other children and animals being around.
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