There are way too many dogs not being socialized, and instead being tossed aside for any aggressive behavior. Most dogs are simply misunderstood and sending them to the pound is not a way to help them change. In fact most dogs don't get adopted again and end being euthanized instead of someone taking the time to learn a little and train these dogs to be social and loving pets. For all you dog owners, and especially you future dog owners here are 5 tips to socialize your dog in the proper way.
#1: Start Early
It is essential that your dog learns about appropriate behavior from an early age. For best results, your puppy should be about seven to eight weeks old when you bring him home. This period (up until fourteen weeks) is a very fearful one for your puppy and they should be treated very gently by everyone. Gentle rebukes will usually be enough for the puppy to understand the rules. Avoid rough play at this age as well.
#2: Understand the Pack Order
Dogs are pack animals, as we all know, and they will create a pack hierarchy in the house. You and all other humans in the house are included in the pack. Because of this, you and all other people in the house need to establish that you are above the dog. This does not mean that you need to harshly enforce this, but subtle changes in the way you conduct yourself go a long way. Pay attention to the little things your dog does, such as growling when they eat or sitting or putting a paw on you. These are all dominant behaviors that need to be curbed to prevent future problems.
#3: Dog Parties
If you want your dog to not be aggressive to other dogs, you need to have them be around other dogs. As long as your dog has their necessary shots, try taking them to a dog park or a dog daycare so that your dog can learn that other dogs are OK and that they are not the enemy. This is a good idea even if you have other dogs in the house, as your dogs will look at other dogs as 'outsiders' unless they are taught otherwise.
#4: Don't Chase the Mailman
When welcomed people come to your house it is important that your dog know who you are letting in and who doesn't belong. Let them get acquainted with the mail carrier, or paper delivery person. If you let in a repair person, and you are fearful of how they will react to this person, it's OK to crate your dog until that person leaves. However, if you associate them well enough, you won't have to take such measures. Make sure as soon as you can that you socialize your dog with as many different kinds of people. Include both genders, and as many different types of ethnicity's as possible. The more people they have seen the less likely for them to be surprised by anyone.
#5: Exercise
Exercise is a necessity not only for dog aggression but for their health as well. Make sure to take them for a walk or play with them at least once a day for a 15 minute minimum. If you can't do this you may want to have a responsible one of your kids do it, or you can even hire a professional dog walker. This will keep your dog from getting bored and frustrated, so they don't take out their frustration on people or any other dogs.
Remember, that your dog cannot learn something you don't teach them. They are only exposed to what you expose them to. They don't have the luxury of exploring the world on their own, so you have to help them along. Let them see what you see, and they'll be better behaved for it.