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Get your favorite pal out for some fun!

Socializing Your Dog with Field Trips

At a very young age, let your puppy get used to things around the house. Then move outside and to the neighborhood to see what's there. After that, and when the pup is older, at least 4 or 5 months, start venturing out to a few of these things. As your dog's confidence gets better, visit more places and introduce more sounds. Be careful not to expose your dog to too much, too soon. A little bit at a time is just fine!

 

Below are some experiences you will want to share with your dog so that he becomes comfortable with strange people, places, sounds, and things. A socialized dog is a dog who is fun to be with.

People

Places

Sounds

Introduce to people
of different

ethnic origins

People who are:
walking
running
bending
hopping
crawling
swimming
bathing
carrying things
 

People who
are riding:

bicycles
skateboards
wagons

 

friends' houses
pet store
outdoor mall
car rides
veterinary office
obedience classes
park
beach

Surfaces:
grass
concrete
gravel
asphalt
slippery floor
stairs,
sand or dirt
rocks
snow
puddles

 doorbell
TV
radio
pots and pans
vacuum
stereo
clapping
dropping things
whistle
sirens
singing
car honking
balloons popping
noisemakers (party)
popcorn popping
electric saw
blender

 
Artwork by Leena, age 16

 

 Introduce your dog to your cat.

Introduce your puppy to many things: umbrellas, balloons, remote control or moving toys, other animals (pet cats, hamsters, and birds).

Be very careful not to scare your dog. Just walk him past the object as you are walking like it's no big deal.

 

Puppies are just like babies!

 

Training Basics
Understanding Dogs
Well-Behaved Dogs
Socializing Your Dog
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Cody's Tour
Kelly's Tour
Trouper's Tour
Your New Dog
Well-Behaved Dog
Special Topics
A New Dog
Your Best Friend
Too Many Dogs
I'll Love You Forever
Training Basics
Following the Rules
What Dogs Cost
Obedience Lessons
Keeping Safe
What Dogs Need
Behavior Problems
Older Dogs
Puppy Basics
Learning Tricks
Losing Your Dog

Ready for a Dog?
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Contract
When I Grow Up
Your Dogs
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