Olsen's

Social skills might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your dog, but they are an important part of making your pet experience a positive one for you and others around you.

As with most things, socialization is easiest to begin teaching at a young age. The most sensitive period for socialization in dogs is between three and 12 weeks old. During this time, try to create pleasant interactions between your dog and people, other dogs and other animals. This will help them feel more comfortable, be friendlier and less fearful when they experience these situations later in life. Consider taking your pet to puppy obedience and training classes when they are about four months old, especially if you're a first time owner. Continue to socialize your pet throughout his or her life. Evidence shows that just like people who learn a second or third language forget how to speak it if they don't use it often, dogs that stop socializing lose their skills.

Before letting your dog come into contact with others, talk to your veterinarian to make sure your dog has all the necessary immunizations, is parasite free and is on a parasite control program.

Tips for Meeting New Dogs and People

• Pick a neutral location. If either of the dogs is on their "home turf" they may be more aggressive.
• Maintain control. Keep both dogs on a leash, but try to avoid pulling back unless absolutely necessary since doing so might unintentionally put your dog into an aggressive position.
• Use positive reinforcement. As dogs are getting to know each other, talk to them using a friendly, happy tone.
• Keep meetings short. On first visits consider taking your dog on a walk and meeting other dogs in passing or distracting him or her with simple commands.
• Watch body language. If either dog begins to act aggressively, try to interest each dog in something else, and if need be, pull them back.
• Once the dogs begin to tolerate each other, end the meeting and move on to a new experience.
• Give your dog a small treat when it meets someone new and behaves properly.
• Introduce your dog to a variety of people of different sexes and ages.
• Bring your dog to loud, busy places. If your dog is really nervous keep visits short and upbeat. While you're there, practice basic commands and offer praise when your dog focuses on you.
• Avoid forcing your dog to approach things that scare him.
• Don't crouch down to comfort your dog when he or she is scared, they will think you're nervous, too. Instead, offer a treat as a distraction.
• To practice knocking or doorbells, put your dog on a leash and have someone knock or ring. As they do it, offer your dog a treat as a distraction. Reward good behavior and ignore barking. When your dog is calm, let your guest offer him a treat.
• When bringing a new dog into your home, initially have him or her meet your other dogs separately if you have more than one.

Body Language

• Playful—crouching down in the front and keeping the back end in the air.
• Aggressive—hair standing up on back, baring teeth, deep growls, stiff-legged gait, prolonged stares