After your puppy is vaccinated it is very important to have them socialize with other dogs and people. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen dog parents walk their dogs who look scared or can’t stop barking at everything. Just like people, it’s important for pups to have their own friends. Arty has a handful of friends that we met at the park. Of course being a pawrent for the first time, you are nervous because it’s like your child going to the first day of school. Will he be liked, will he make any friends, will he get bit? All these thoughts cross your mind, but in the end you know it’s time to let go and have your pup socialize. Here are a few tips to plan for your pup’s first outing:
- Pick a local park or dog park to take your puppy.
- Bring a water bowl, ball and some treats.
- Make friends! Have your dog smell and play with other doggos.
- Keep an eye on your pup. Make sure he isn’t getting into trouble.
- Use a sound or noise to get his attention so it’s easy for them to come back to you on command.
- Have fun!
We take Arty to the park about 3 times a week. He runs around with his friends, (off leash), he tackles them, and chases them, all things a pup should be doing. The first few days were tough for me because Arty had a hard time leaving the park. He had so much fun with his friends that he didn’t want to go home after. So it’s important to remind your dog who’s the leader of the pack and also that you’re tons of fun and your dog should want to go home with you. A quick tip, depending on the park you go to, off leash might not be an option but if the park you go to is big enough and his friends are off leash then I would say it’s okay to try it out. Another option would be a Dog Park. They are usually gated and you don’t have to worry about your pup running off. So please, take your pups outside for some fresh air and play time.
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