Even Dogs Can Be Taught Proper Etiquette

Let's face it; your dog is a very important member of your family. You want to introduce them to your friends, family, and of course other dogs. Having said that, you expect them to have a little etiquette and manners around other people and pets. However, they cannot do it on their own. Just like raising a child, dogs need to be taught how to act properly in social situations and when at home alone. It's best to start them when they are puppies, because they are the quickest to learn. However, you can teach any dog at any age, but you will just have to be a tad more patient with older dogs.

If you are adopting a puppy, this is the best time to teach them proper manners and socialization. Dogs at this young age are like little sponges and will quickly learn what they are taught. A good rule of thumb is that a person should strive to expose them to a hundred different social situations within the first ninety days of taking puppy home. This way they will be familiar with the different noises, smells and touches. This can mean anything from the washing machine going into the spin cycle, to the doorbell ringing, to a car honking. When they are exposed to this, they will "remember" it, and not be scared when exposed to it in the future. Think of it as climatizing or acclimating your dog. This is a brand new world for them, and they deserve a chance to adjust to it safely with you by their side.

Along with introducing Fido to environmental elements, you should also have them meet several different types of people. This means people with high and low voices, loud and soft voices, and different accents. Let your friends and family hold your puppy and play with them. Your puppy will not only have a great time because he is the center of attention, but it will also give the humans a fun time as well. During this time you can also teach your puppy how to not jump on guests or "kiss" them.

Although puppies are the easiest and fastest dogs to train, adult dogs can be trained to be social as well. It just takes a little more time, patience and consistency. You can get suggestions from your vet or a professional dog trainer if need be. If your dog doesn't fare well the first time around, don't give up on him, because he wants to please you as much as you want him or her to act correctly. Always reward your puppy for his good behavior with a doggie treat, and he will work hard for that food in the training you'll be providing to him.

Even though it might seem like an overwhelming task, socializing your dog is really worth the time and effort. You'll be able to relax much more when guests come to your house, and be able to take them out with you more often. The same rules apply when you train dogs to be around other dogs. Over time, your dog will leave you smiling when your friends and family say how well behaved he is.