Socialization

Even dogs from breeds that have a very good reputation for loving people will need to be thoroughly socialized as puppies, to make sure that they have lots of great experiences being around all kinds of different people. Even breeds that are known to be less social (often described as aloof) will also grow up to love to be around people with proper socialization.

It makes sense that if you grow up meeting lots of people and going to lots of different places, and always having fun when it happens, you’ll grow into an adult who loves to meet people and visit places. If a puppy is shielded from new experiences and people, though, she’ll grow up to be timid and possibly frightened of new things. An undersocialized dog is more likely to react defensively around new people and in new situations and this is potentially dangerous. It is important to note that most bites occur because a dog is fearful and unsure, not because he is “dominant” or “protective”.

So it’s up to you to provide all kinds of new friends and experiences for your puppy. Luckily for you, this is lots of fun – infants of all species bring out the good will in everyone, and you’ll find that people will line up to help you socialize your puppy!)

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