Socializing an Older Dog with Other Dogs
Socializing an Older Dog with Other Dogs, first and foremost, we all have different experiences socializing our pets by the time they are 12 weeks old. But a lot of time, this is impossible, and then you need to learn how to train your dog. Socializing an older dog with other dogs of similar or different character/breed can be difficult and require a unique approach than when socializing puppies.
Socializing your dog with other dogs is very important. You want a dog to be able to interact peacefully with a variety of dogs, especially if you're considering bringing a second dog into your home. Socializing an adult dog can be more difficult than socializing a puppy. You will have to start with small interactions with other dogs. Make sure to reinforce positive behavior, and address negative behaviors appropriately. An adult dog may never be fully social or playful with other dogs, but with some dedication you can teach an adult dog to behave in the presence of other dogs.
Signs That Your Dog Is Not Socialized
Socialization helps your dog to be of good behavior when in an unfamiliar territory. It prevents unwanted behavior, like barking at people unnecessarily, jumping on, or nipping at people. Without it, dogs will behave anxiously or fearfully, which, in turn, leads to other behavioral problems like aggression.
The following questions are questions you need to answer and If you answer “yes” to any of them, then your dog may not be socialized.
• Is he / she nervous when out on a walk?
• Is he / she too excited by others, making them anxious?
• Is he / she afraid or aggressive towards people?
• Is he / she shy around others?
• Does he / she bark, growl, or lung when approached?
Training an older dog comes with its own unique challenges which depends on the breed, age and temperament. You would need to expose your old dog to everything as everything is new again.
The following five tips will make that easier.
Go on Walks Together
Exposing your dog to new experiences is a vital part of socializing an older dog. The new experiences allow your dog to burn energy, which helps your dog remains calm. Do not out rightly punish the dog if she displays some unruly behavior Instead, use positive experiences and treats.
Introduce People One by One
You need to keep your dog on a leash and let your friends and family members approach slowly and speak softly. Giving them treats to offer your dog will also help. Make sure they avoid changing mood or reacting suddenly when close to the dog especially talking loudly or in a high-pitched voice. When dealing with strangers, give them a treat or favorite toy to pass on to your dog to help it form positive associations. If your dog reacts negatively, have the person slowly back away and try again later.
Host a Dog Play Date
Taking your dog out is good but don’t unilaterally take her out to the park suddenly where she will be exposed to a lot of people or distractions. Try organizing a small party with a maximum of 3-4 dogs at a time at first. These sets of dogs should be similar in size, age, size, disposition, and breed if possible.
Work Up to the Dog Park
One of the best environments for socializing your dog is the dog park. However, when socializing an older dog with other dogs, you need to make it happen stage by stage. You should start gradually by introducing the area around the dog park into your walks. Then, let your dog slowly approach and interact with other dogs.
Keep Calm and Carry On
It is possible along the line your dog suddenly reacts anxious or frightened, do not be alarmed or react harshly. Doing so will reinforce the fears your dog already has. Instead, remain calm and ignore the behavior where possible. The important thing is showing your dog that everything is fine, and there is no reason to be worried.
When socializing an older dog with other dogs, remember that the key factors are time and repetition. Do not worry if things do not go smoothly at first, the progress may be slow but you will get there. Just make sure that you are continuously supportive, calm, and loving while reinforcing that new experiences are positive things. If you put the above to practice, you will realize that your old dog will be properly socialized without any problem.
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