Socialization Techniques for your Puppy During Quarantine
March 2, 2021
Written by: Tyler Gonzalez, Oncology Department Liaison, Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital
Many people in quarantine got a puppy for companionship, as a source of affection, and even a project to train. As we see the world change and society start to open back up publicly, these quarantine puppies may have difficulties interacting with humans and other animals.
They have little to none:
- Exposure to high stress environments
- Other dogs
- People wanting to interact with them
- And anything that is outside of their home/owner
Many breeds like Australian Shepherds and Vizslas are innately anxious breeds that require extra training and attention regardless of the pandemic. It is important to be calm, research their stressors, and develop tactics/plans to introduce them into a social society.
We want to keep in mind that:
- Noise
- Interactions
- Public spaces
- Anxiety
- Lack of training/experiences
Can all effect how your pet reacts to new environments.
We can use techniques such as:
Treat method
- Rewarding good behavior with small treats. Stick with one specific type of treat and only use that treat for training. When around people judge your pets comfort level and work up to more difficult situations. If you are finished with the socialization, slow down treating by treating less on an easy situation to a difficult situation.
Clicker Method
- Reward and similar to the treat method as your pet will have positive reinforcement. Learn more here.
Harness
- There are many different types of harnesses from no pull, slip, back/front clip, and head halters. Evaluate what your dog does well and what it reacts to when in public. Base the type of harness you buy on the aspect of training that the harness relates to best.
Places of socialization/exposure based on activity and stress level:
- Neighborhood walk – Low
- Car – Low
- Friends House – Low/Medium
- Street Shops Walk – Medium (Depending on Time of Day)
- Non-Dog Park – Medium
- Dog Park – High
- Animal Clinic – High
- Restaurant/Bar/Store – High
The best way to introduce your puppy into socialization is to be on the lookout for your pet’s anxiety and stress levels when venturing into unknown territory. Being aware will allow you to socialize your pup the right way, and get them ready for a post-quarantine world!