Socialization in puppyhood is an essential and important task, with the help of which we get a balanced, well-behaved dog that is not afraid of noises, sounds, strangers, and cars. Because at first, it may be easy to tolerate if our dog is afraid, but later, in adulthood, this will become a very disturbing factor, which can only be resolved with great difficulty or not at all.
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In winter, however, this is not as easy as it would be in summer, because it is cold, and people are lazier on average, especially because you have to get dressed, and you also have to dress the puppy. Just as, there are far fewer people, cars, and dogs walking outside than usual.
What can we do?
Adequate protection: In winter, you have to take into account several things that make it difficult to spend time outside, such as freezing, salted asphalt, cold, and snow. For small dogs, short-haired or groomed dogs, or puppies, it is worth buying a coat that covers not only the body but also the belly. If you live in a place where ice is removed from the road with salt, it is also important to protect their paws, in this case, it is worth wearing shoes or avoiding salted places. Don't leave the snow on the fur, it will make their skin wet and cold.
Dog-friendly places: Dog-friendly places are opening more and more often, which can be indoor places, but mostly outside restaurants and cafes where dogs are welcome. It is worth sitting out with a warm cup of tea and letting people pet the dog. There are large shopping centers, mostly in the construction and household departments, where you can take a dog in hand. It is also worth taking several walks in the city because that is where the dog really learns.
Dog school: Unfortunately, most dog schools do not hold classes in the winter, but there are one or two places that operate in the winter as well. Dog school is not a negligible aspect of proper socialization. Just as a child learns how to behave in a crowd, so does a dog, as they learn a lot from each other. If we never take a child out of the house and he grows up in only one room, he will be antisocial. The dog will not learn on its own how to behave and that the world is not a dangerous place where everyone wants to harm him.
Family and friends, online dog dating: There is no better way to socialize than visiting family, visiting friends, planning a walk together, or even looking online for reliable dogs and owners who will go for a short walk with us, let the dogs play and get to know each other. Those who are not afraid to pet the dog, because this is one of the biggest problems. Most people are afraid of dogs and will not pet or give treats.
Improvisation at home: Hats, glasses, umbrellas, TV and radio, roller skates, and bicycle are all things with which we can start socializing at home. Let's be creative.
Events: In preparation for Christmas, most cities are already planning their programs, festivals, fairs, and Santa Claus walking the streets. Let's see what they are planning in the area and arrange a trip. Both the dog and the family will enjoy it. Pay attention to what the dog is doing, and if you feel that he is too stressed, give him a little rest, excessive stimulation causes ingrained behavioral problems.
