I am a definite dog lover, and I count as my good friend a beautiful Shiloh shepherd named Colter. I want to say I really appreciated the “Teach Your Doggies Well” editorial in Tuesday’s Tribune edition. Thank you for all of those good tips on training dogs.

I would like to add one more critical point to that good advice: socialize. Socializing puppies, in addition to obedience training, is of crucial importance in raising a doggie “good citizen.”

Most canine research shows that the critical socialization window for a puppy lasts up to about 12 to 16 weeks of age. During that time, it’s so important to expose your puppy, in a safe and non-threatening way, to as many different kinds of people, noises, places, other animals, etc., as you can. It is much more difficult (and extremely time consuming) to socialize a dog after that 3- to 4-month socialization window closes. Not properly socializing your puppy can almost guarantee a skittish and aggressive dog that has the potential to fear and bite people and kill or harm other animals. Un-socialized dogs are generally quite unpleasant to be around.

Puppy classes like those mentioned that are held at the Albert Lea Veterinary Clinic are a great way to begin socializing your puppy. In addition to classes like that, plan multiple safe exposures for your puppy to all kinds of things and experiences — especially during that critical socialization window. Top that off with some good obedience training and you will have a well adjusted dog and a good companion!

 

Peggy Bennett

Albert Lea