Dog Health & Wellness
Being in a social setting can take some getting used to for any type of dog, so it is important to take some steps to ensure the comfort and safety of your pup and everyone around them. We spoke with Laura Holder, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Executive Director of Conservation Dogs Collective, to learn three important tips and tricks to get your dog ready for a lively summer.
Introducing your dog into any type of social setting should be done gradually. Starting away from the environment, such as across the street or in a nearby grassy area, will allow your dog to become aware of what is going on around them.
“This will allow your dog to look at the activities going on,” Holder said. Associating the activities with some tasty treats is a great way to help your dog learn that activities equal good times. Allow them to look, then give them a treat, then relook at what they are about to encounter, and then slowly work to integrate them into the social environment, assuming they are showing the right body language.”
Slow integration into social settings is also important for dogs that are hypersocial. Although your eager dog may be ready to interact with others, take time to train them that it’s important to remain calm throughout the excitement.
Your dog’s body language is a key indicator about how they feel in the social setting that they are in. A dog that feels comfortable in their environment is typically alert and paying attention to what is going on around them. Looseness in their muscle tone and responsiveness to known cues are also indicators that they are content.
“A comfortable dog is a dog that is physically balanced in its body,” Holder said. “Getting to know what your dog looks like on a regular basis while comfortable at home is really helpful to observe how they differ in public settings. This will allow you to determine whether or not they are just as comfortable – or acting differently – in new situations.”
An uncomfortable dog may bark, lunge or even begin to growl, but they can also become quieter. They might start to withdraw, or begin lip-licking, yawning, or scratching. A dog may even turn their body completely away from the social situation, which is a clear indicator they need to be removed from the situation.
It’s not uncommon that other people will want to interact with your dog while out and about. Although it can be fun to let others interact with your pup in the right setting, it may not always be what your dog wants, and your dog relies on you to be their advocate.
“You have every right to ask someone to stop interacting with your dog if you see your dog is starting to become uncomfortable. Rather than allowing an unfamiliar person to physically interact with your dog, you can offer to show them a certain trick your dog can do, or share your dog's story with that person instead,” said Holder.
It’s also critical to keep your dog safe and comfortable during interactions with other dogs. Holder advises to be prepared with appropriate equipment when out in public, such as a six-foot leash and a body harness so that you have more physical control over them. Treats, like Fromm Pop’etts or Tenderollies, can also be a helpful tool to help redirect your dog or another dog from a stressful situation.
The comfort and safety of you, your dog, and other humans and dogs around you is essential when in social situations. Having a good understanding of how to navigate your dog’s emotions while socializing will lead to a playful and lively summer for both you and your pup alike! Learn more tips for raising, training and feeding your puppy at www.frommfamily.com.
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