Socialize an Adult Dog. Socializing an adult dog is a much more complicated process than socializing a puppy. Before starting, it is essential to gather enough information from an expert because many cases require specialized attention .
How to Socialize an Adult Dog
Be aware that wanting to socialize an aggressive adult dog for the sole purpose of getting along with a puppy, cat or baby is not the best option. Indeed, an adult dog should socialize in a general way with all that surrounds him: his environment, people, other pets and objects.
Socialize an Adult Dog
Address socialization on a case by case basis
There is an infinity of tutorials and information sites on the internet with more or less effective tips for socializing a dog. The fact is that each case is unique and each dog will react differently to the same process. Know that the advice you find are not all valid for your dog .
Socialization must take place in puppies because, at this stage of their life, their personality is not yet defined and they have no fears or memories that push them to reject or accept certain situations.
The term socialization refers to the process in which the dog comes into contact with the surrounding environment (which can be very varied). In order to complete this process, he must accept and have a positive view of the following:
City
Campaign
Forest
cars
Bus
Noise
children
adults
The elderly
teenagers
Toys
Dogs
cats
etc.
Analyze the concrete situation
The socialization of an adult dog is usually more difficult, the animal already having a series of acquired memories that influence his reactions to certain situations. It is therefore essential to analyze the aspects that will have to be worked with him before starting :
Pets
People
Environment
Once the problem is identified, try to understand why your dog reacts in this way, whether with aggression or shyness. If your dog is adopted, it is likely that you can never discover the trigger.
In order to solve the problem effectively, make a list of all the behaviors that concern youand cause stress in the dog. It is essential to know your pet and to observe in detail his behavior in order to correct them.
Specialists: a real key to success
After finishing your list, call an ethologist or a canine educator , they are the only ones able to solve this situation effectively.
These people have advanced knowledge as well as real training on dog behavior. It is possible that what you interpret as aggression is actually fear or anxiety, these professionals will help you to clearly identify the problem of your pet.
In addition to solving the situation, the canine educator or ethologist will answer all your questions and guide you in an effective and individual way , something that web pages filled with random advice can not do. Although this assumes an economic cost (there are also low cost specialists), it will be offset by future profits.
Some tips to improve the quality of the socialization process
About PlanetAnimal, we are aware of the behavior of some dogs and the difficulties that this type of problem involves in everyday life. This is why we encourage you once again to consult a specialist, as you would do yourself in a similar situation.
During this process, pay attention to certain aspects so that the dog notices a real benefit in his daily life and accepts it at best.
Here are some tips that will improve the quality of the socialization process :
Respect the five freedoms of animal welfare by providing a balanced and quality diet, comfort and convenience in daily life, veterinary visits if necessary, freedom of expression and freedom from fear and fear. stress.
Go out two to three times a day. It is essential that your dog enjoys enough daily walks. Their absence will have a direct impact on the process of socialization of your dog who will be isolated, fearful and nervous.
Exercise with your pet. This is a great option for nervous and very energetic dogs. In addition, socializing a dog after it has been spent is much more effective because the animal is relaxed and tends to better accept new situations.
Use positive reinforcement as the only educational tool. It is essential to use this process to socialize an adult dog. In addition, you will get much faster and more effective results.
Never hit or scold the dog. Carrying out such actions will only worsen the socialization process and create insecurity and discomfort for your pet. Do not get upset for what it hurts and congratulate him for what he does well.
Anticipate the attitude of the dog. It is important to know your pet and anticipate situations that could make him feel uncomfortable or stressed.
Always work with calm people or animals and adopt a positive attitude to put your dog in trust.
Being patient, dogs can not all overcome a fear or a lack, some take years for this and others need only two or three weeks. This will depend on each case and can only be determined by an expert. Therefore, if your dog is afraid and refuses to interact with other dogs, do not force him. It is better to wait until he takes the first step.
Do not expose your pet to a situation if the specialist advises against it, the meeting could go wrong.
Accept your dog as it is the best advice to apply to this whole article. Indeed, if you can not solve his problem, you will have to live with it and make it as bearable as possible for the whole family.