Why it’s Important to Socialize Your Alaskan Klee Kai Puppy

Socializing your pup is critical for developing a well-rounded, even-tempered, patient companion. Just like people, dogs tend to fear what they don’t understand, so the more you can help your pup understand, the better! This will help him feel confident and give and him the tools he needs to navigate unfamiliar situations. As a result, he’ll be tolerant and calm when encountering new people, sounds, smells, environments, and more. A well-socialized dog is less likely to react aggressively to scary situations or other dogs. As you work to help your pup navigate the world you will develop a deeper bond. Your pup will see you as his point of reference and soon he’ll know that he’s able to endure any situation as long as you’re by his side.

How to Socialize Your Puppy

Your goal with socializing your puppy should be to introduce him to a wide variety of new environments and situations while providing him with plenty of support and encouragement.

With this in mind, consider your lifestyle and how you want your pup to fit into it. Do you spend a lot of time hiking, walking through urban neighborhoods, going on road trips? Do you host parties, or have small children? Plan to slowly familiarize your puppy with each of those scenarios. You should also expose him to people of all different ages, dogs of all different sizes and energy levels, as well as other types of household pets and animals.

Handling Your Puppy

Handling your puppy is really important and can be started right away. Make a point to pet and handle your puppy every day. Be sure you touch his paws, ears, snout, tail, belly, etc and reward him as you do. This helps your pup become tolerant and comfortable being handled by people. Once your pup is comfortable having his paws and ears handled, take things up a notch. Practice handling his snout and even having him open his mouth so you can inspect and touch his teeth and tongue.

If you use a comb or brush to groom your dog, introduce this to him too. Let him sniff it first, then slowly begin to brush his fur. Offer plenty of praise and treats as you go so that he understands the activity can be fun and rewarding!

These activities help your pup become comfortable being handled, and will cull any impulse he has to react negatively when someone touches him. As a result, he will be much more cooperative when he goes to the vet, the groomer, meets small children who want to grab his tail, and more.

Meet New People

It’s one thing for your puppy to feel comfortable being handled by you, but it’s also important to make sure he’s comfortable around other people. Start by introducing him to other members of your household. Have them pet him, hold him and play with him while offering treats. Then, begin inviting friends over to meet him. Don’t overwhelm him with a huge group, but ensure he has consistent interaction with other people. Do your best to introduce your pup to people of different ages, genders, and energy levels. The wider your dog’s point of reference for people is the more confident he’ll be when meeting strangers. This practice helps your dog realize that humans are friendly and fun and he’ll be thrilled rather than fearful when he meets new people.

Attend Puppy Classes

Puppy classes are a great way for your pup to meet new people and dogs in a structured environment. They’re also a wonderful way to bond with your pup. These classes may involve anything from basic obedience to handling and socializing with other puppies, as well as other life skills. If your pup is extroverted and excitable, these classes are an opportunity for you to help him approach situations more calmly. On the flip side, if your pup is more timid, puppy class will help him come out of his shell a little. The best part is you will have the support of an experienced trainer who will be able to offer guidance tailored to your puppy’s personality.

Set Up A Playdate

Introducing your pup to new dogs is a crucial part of his socialization, but it should be done carefully. Many dog owners think “my pup is really friendly, he’ll do fine at the dog park.” Sure, their pup isn’t likely to start any dog fights, but he may find the prospect of meeting 10 new dogs at once a tad overwhelming. Wouldn’t you?!

The best way to set your pup up for success is to start introducing him to other dogs in controlled environments. If you have a friend or family member with a friendly dog, invite them to join you and your pup on a walk. This way the dogs can get to know one another in a low-pressure environment. If the walk goes well, let the dogs play together off-leash in your backyard. Keep a close eye on them to ensure neither one feels overwhelmed (some dogs aren’t prepared to contend with rambunctious puppies). Make sure to offer plenty of encouragement, praise and even treats throughout their playdate.

Tips for Successful Socialization

Take it Slow. Be patient throughout the socialization process. Teaching your puppy about the world may be overwhelming for him, depending on his personality. At times you may feel like you’re taking one step forward only to talk two steps back the following day. This is normal. Even puppies have bad days, so don’t feel discouraged if after just one walk your pup is still scared of his shadow. Socialization takes time and shouldn’t be rushed. As you continue to bond with your puppy his confidence will improve and he’ll be more equipped to navigate unfamiliar situations.

Use Plenty of Praise

Don’t underestimate the power of positive reinforcement. Reward and praise your puppy every time he does something well! This is especially important when he’s in unfamiliar situations. For instance, your pup may be fearful of his first walk, but constant praise and rewards from you will help him feel confident and empowered.

Note Your Pup’s Body Language

Always pay attention to how your puppy is reacting to new situations. While it’s good to help him push past his fear, pushing him too far could result in major setbacks. If he’s nervous, praise and treats should help him relax, but if he’s cowering in fear it may be best to remove him from the situation.

Signs that your pup is truly scared include:

His body is tense and rigid

He’s trembling

His tail is between his legs and his ears are pinned back

He’s constantly licking his lips

You can see the whites of his eyes

If your pup is showing any of these signs he’s too scared to continue with the activity. It’s best to take him home where he’s comfortable and let him relax. You can always try the activity again later, and you should!

Practice Makes Perfect

It’s not enough to introduce your pup to a new environment or situation once and assume he’s fine with it. You should make a point of reinforcing his socialization by continuing to put him in a variety of new environments. Take him for regular car trips, encourage him to meet new dogs, etc. He needs to practice feeling confident and comfortable in these environments. Again, puppies do have bad days. One day he may love a car ride, and the next he may be traumatized by it. The more familiar each situation becomes the more prepared your pup will be to face it.