Socialization is the desensitization process of exposing your dog to new sounds, sights, and situations. The purpose is to eliminate any adverse responses. A properly socialized dog reacts to its surroundings, people, and other dogs, in a non-threatening and normal way. It does not show signs of overexcitement and anxiety. Therefore, you can take your dog to any location, and he or she will stay relaxed. The process of socialization is an on-going one. You need to expose your dog to various setting continuously, or else the situation may be unfamiliar to your dog again and anxiety levels will rise. Under-socialization may be hazardous, as your pet may be unpredictable when placed in a new situation. He or she may bite, jump, run away, or injure others.

If you want to socialize your puppy or dog, you need to work on obedience or training, which is one of the basic needs of a pet. Enroll your dog in an obedience class. This will help teach him or her valuable coping skills. It will also strengthen the bond between you two, as you will be guiding your pet through the process. Further, when you two go out for a walk, take some treats along with you. Praise and reward your dog with a treat for positive reactions like sitting politely upon command. Ignore undesirable reactions like barking and jumping; simply redirect attention to yourself. When the undesirable reaction stops, praise and reward your dog. For proper socialization, be sure to tke your dog everywhere with you throughout his or her lifetime.

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