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Pet passion What’s the guardian’s role in canine socialisation? Read on to know
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A ‘well-socialised’ dog brings tremendous happiness to his guardian as well as everyone he comes into contact with. He is obedient, well-adjusted and makes a good companion. On the other hand, it is difficult to have ‘un-socialised&
#8217; dogs around as they tend to bite out of fearThe guardian has a pivotal role to play in the socialisation of the dog.
Socialisation is the process of introducing and familiarising your canine companion to new experiences, which include people, other animals, objects and places. This will help the dog react positively to new experiences. Dogs are pack animals and follow their leader, and in this case you. So it is up to you to teach them good behaviour. Socialisation has to begin when the pups are eight weeks old. The puppy brain is receptive to new experiences when the puppy is between 4 and 12 weeks of age. Even if this period elapses, he can still learn but it could be slightly harder.
One reason why puppies should not be separated from their mothers and siblings before 8 weeks of age is they learn vital social behaviours from the mother dog and littermates and they are less prone to bite.
How will you go about the process of socialisation? Introduce your puppy to umbrellas, canes, bikes, odd sounds, loud noises, the postman, the delivery man, men with beard, men with hats, children, cats and other animals. The puppy needs to be handled several times during the day; his teeth and ears should be examined. Play with him; it helps develop his mind and he will grow confident of finding solutions to the problems he encounters.
As pack animals and social beings, dogs need a lot of interaction with their guardians, people and other animals - cats and dogs. The more you isolate the dog, the more likely he will develop negative behaviour. Tying him up leads to aggression. People who want their dogs to remain outside should never acquire them.
Reward good behaviour by praising or offering treats. If your dog ‘misbehaves’, ignore such behaviour. Teach your dog his name. Calling out his name should mean “pay attention”. When your dog responds to his name, praise him or give him a treat. Get your pup used to a leash early on by taking him for potty breaks and walks. Teach your dog good behaviour throughout his adult life and you will be a great canine parent.
The Pet Passion winner of this month is Bettina. Bettina Mueller found a litter of five mongrel puppies under her neighbour’s car. She cared for the mother and the pups, found homes for all the puppies by spreading the word among parents in her son’s school and arranged to have the mother dog neutered. Bettina has also adopted a pup from the street.
If you wish to share with us your experiences with your pet or you know someone who deserves to be Pet’s Choice winner, email us at bluecrossofindia@gmail.com.
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