When we think about socialising our dogs, we often picture a puppy playing with other dogs or interacting with various people. However, socialisation doesn’t always have to mean direct interaction, and it isn’t just reserved for puppies!

Carefully curated socialisation outings continue to be particularly beneficial for adolescent dogs: giving them opportunities to experience the world from the sidelines without the pressures of direct interaction can make all the difference when it comes to confidence and optimism.

Recently, I took my young dog, Budweis, for a socialisation session outside a supermarket. Here’s how we turned a mundane trip into a valuable learning experience:

Creating a Comfortable Environment

First, we chose a comfortable, shady spot. It was close enough for Budweis to notice the hustle and bustle around him, but far enough away that he wasn’t overwhelmed. Positioning ourselves beside a wall created extra security: no one could surprise us from behind. Additionally, I had his “In Training” leash slip on – this can help deter any curious passersby from getting too close.

Providing a Focus Activity

Simply asking Budweis to lie down for an extended period of time would have been challenging. So, I gave him an activity: a chewing project! The chew provided him with something to focus on, whilst also helping to relieve any stress he might feel in this new environment. Plus, if he had been unable to chew, it would have indicated that the environment was perhaps too overwhelming, and would have given me valuable information about his comfort level.

Keeping Sessions Short and Positive

Our sessions are always short. This particular one lasted about 15 minutes. The key is quality over quantity. A brief, positive experience is far more beneficial than a longer, potentially negative one. We aim for short, positive, or neutral experiences to ensure that Budweis’ socialisation is a pleasant experience.

Patience is Key: Socialisation is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Remember, socialisation is a marathon, not a sprint. There’s no rush to expose your puppy or young dog to anything and everything before a certain age – instead, allow them to experience and learn about the world at their own pace. By observing from a distance, they can gain confidence and understanding without feeling overwhelmed.

Would you like a hand with this stuff? Drop me a message! A qualified and ethical professional can help you plan intentional learning experiences and ensure that the level of environmental challenge is appropriate for your dog.