Training a dog to be friendly around people – whether a puppy or a grown dog – is an important component of a happy relationship with your animal.
Fear and uncertainty in a dog can greatly increase the risk of unwanted behavior. Therefore, doing whatever you can to decrease the risk of fear will ultimately help your dog and result in lower stress for you. Fostering an environment that includes people and other animals can help to acclimate your dog to many different scenarios. They will gain a sense of comfort which ultimately encourages them to be friendly dog.
Tips for Training a Friendly Dog
If you have a puppy, you may have a few limitations when they are young. Because puppies are vulnerable to some sickness before they’ve had some of their shots, allowing them to be social in a controlled environment is best. Introductions can and should happen – just make sure you monitor their exposure. Between eight and eleven weeks, they can develop patterns of fear. If possible, socialize them well during this time to help prevent these patterns from forming.
Exposing dogs of all ages to a variety of people is the best way to socialize them. Because animals can develop a fear of certain types of people – your best bet is to try to ensure they gain a sense of comfort with as many different people as possible. For instance, be sure they come into safe contact with men, women, young children, and people with different temperaments and energy levels. By allowing them to see all categories of people as non-threatening, their developed response can be a welcoming one. (With young puppies, use a carrier to limit exposure until the environment is safe.)
Regardless of your dog’s age, knowing basic commands is critical to ensure good behavior and socialization. Once they know the basics, you’ll be able to help them learn how to behave in most situations. This helps them how to act as they are introduced to a new and different experience.
The base-level commands encourage good behavior that you can – and should – reward. Rewarding good behavior not only helps dogs to be happier but helps to ensure that your dog will repeat the desired behavior in the future. The same theory applies to unwanted behavior. When they behave negatively, removing them from the situation and giving them a “time out” from others will help them learn that their behavior is not acceptable.
When training your dog or puppy, allowing them to meet and interact with other dogs will help them develop and learn how to play with others. Many areas have dog parks, and dog training centers may offer play care. If you’re comfortable with your dog’s knowledge of basic commands, these facilities may be a great option for socialization. If you are training a puppy, make sure their shots are at a stage sufficient to protect their health. You can also set up “play dates” with friends and family (And their pets). In all likelihood, these are the people and dogs your pet will be around often; socializing with them will help ensure good behavior in the frequent future encounters.
At Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training, we offer comprehensive dog obedience training and dog behavior training programs to help teach your dog to listen every time, under any variety of distractions. We understand that a well-socialized dog is a confident and friendly dog. If you live in Sarasota, Bradenton, or Lakewood Ranch, call us today to set up a consultation or to tour our facility. We can help.
