Socializing Puppies During the Pandemic

Socializing Puppies during the Pandemic

               We’ve been seeing lots of new puppies lately at Patton! It’s great that so many dogs are being adopted right now—people have more time on their hands to help pups through house training and learning commands and who isn’t looking for companionship and happy distractions during this often trying time of social distancing?  But what happens when everyone goes back to work? Dogs could experience separation anxiety and other behavior problems when we finally have more freedom to leave our homes.  How can you help your new pup develop the social skills and independence needed to be well-adjusted pet? Here are some tips on training and socialization for your pup that can be done even during self-isolation.

               Puppies have a window of time between about 10-14 weeks of age where learning about new situations is optimal.  Exposing puppies to various surfaces, noises, and situations in a safe controlled environment during this time is critical to reducing fears and anxiety.  However, interactions with other dogs and humans may be limited right now.  You can still expose your puppy to many different things in and around your home to aid socialization skills.

               It’s a good idea to confine or crate your puppy for short times during the day.  Maybe go for a walk and leave your pup at home or even crate him and do yard work outside for an hour.  This will help your pup learn to be alone and/or get used to her crate for the future when you may not be home all day.  I’m personally a fan of crating dogs overnight but I know many people prefer to sleep with their pets in bed, and this is a personal choice.  If you are going to crate your dog at night, there may be a learning curve for him to get used to the crate so be prepared for some sleepless nights, but most pups adapt relatively quickly, especially if using a special toy or treat that the pup is only allowed to enjoy while in the crate.

               As for other socialization opportunities, expose your pup to different surfaces by going for a hike or even just playing in the yard, driveway, tile floor, carpet, etc. around the house.  Don’t worry about your pet being fully vaccinated before taking him out.  Social skills are much more important and need to occur before your pup receives all her vaccines.  That being said, avoid large groups of dogs or playing with dogs who appear sick.  Going for walks is a great way to get exercise, expose pups to new places and things and one activity we can all do even during social distancing!

               Exposure to different sounds is also helpful in reducing fears and noise phobias.  Find animal programs on TV, run the vacuum, turn on different phone or other electronic ring tones, bang pots and pans.  You don’t want to scare your pup, but you do want her to hear different noises. Make each noise a positive experience by giving your pup small treats and by staying happy and upbeat around strange noises.

               If you can’t get out and about or interact with other people, expose your pup to various scenarios at home.  Put on sunglasses, wear a hat, dance around, wear your mask.  If you do have close friends or family who are not ill and can safely meet your pup (outside may be best) those interactions can be helpful, too.

               Remember, keep things fun, stay upbeat and provide training treats when introducing new things.  If at any point your pup looks stressed or seems frightened, stop the interaction and do something your pup likes and is comfortable with, then try again another time. 

               We’re so happy so many dogs have found their forever homes, but it’s important to continue to socialize and train them to reduce fears and behavior problems in the future.  We look forward to seeing many more puppies in the coming weeks!

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://fearfreepets.com/pandemic-puppies-puppy-socialization-during-a-disease-outbreak/

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/socialize-puppy-times-social-distancing/