You have a social life, your dog should have one, too!
Socializing your dog from an early age can help your pet be more confident and less fearful in unfamiliar situations. Socialization begins with the breeder through specialized programs, such as Puppy Culture, and continues with the owner. By introducing your puppy to new situations, different people, places and things in a safe and positive manner, your puppy will grow into a friendly, healthy, happy and well-adjusted dog.
How to socialize your puppy
When your puppy first comes home, follow these basic suggestions from the American Kennel Club to help socialize your puppy:
- Introduce your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells.
- Make it positive, with the appropriate amount of treats and praise.
- Involve the whole family, including the kids.
- Avoid doing too much too fast by introducing your puppy to a few family members and introducing new strangers slowly.
- Take your puppy into the public, such as the pet store or on a puppy play date.
- Enroll in puppy classes to teach basic obedience.
Get more info on how to socialize your dog during social distancing here.
How apartment managers and property owners can provide a dog-friendly environment
Dog ownership is growing among single people as well as apartment renters. By providing opportunities for tenants to socialize their dogs, property managers can provide a pet-friendly environment that is attractive to renters with dogs.
Here are a few ways property managers can play a role in promoting a pet-friendly atmosphere with social opportunities for pets and their owners.
Provide a dog washing station on property. With the increased development of pet-friendly buildings, a self-serve dog wash is one of the most sought-after amenities. After working with hundreds of apartment properties that have purchased the Evolution Dog Wash to attract and retain tenants, we’ve learned some of their most popular social activities revolve around pets.
Promote pet-friendly social events to benefit both pets and their owners. Just like people, dogs who spend time interacting, exercising and socializing with other dogs lead healthy and happy lives. It’s a great way for dogs to meet other dogs, and dog owners to meet other dog owners. Here are a few ideas to get you started
- Host “Yappy Hours”, a happy hour playdate for dogs and their humans.
- Hold a “Walk and Wash,” a walk or doggie playdate where tenants and dogs can get some exercise while socializing and finish with a dog wash in the Evolution Dog Wash.
- Plan a costume party, and not just for Halloween. Many pet lovers enjoy dressing their dogs to celebrate different themes and holidays throughout the year.
Dog socialization is an important part of a happy, healthy life for any dog, young or old. Differentiate your property from others in your area by creating a unique, pet-friendly environment for pet lovers.
