There are a lot of ways to practice socializing your dog. This can be done when your dog is a puppy. It will be more difficult to socialize when they’re an adult.
Socializing your dog from a young age is important so they aren’t scared of everything, or aggressive towards people and other dogs.
Change up your walking routes
A great way to get your dog used to the outside world is walking them everyday. This will allow them to see other people and dogs from a distance. It will also help them get used to all the different sounds.
It’s a good idea to walk different routes every now and then so your dog doesn’t get used to just one. This will let them know that it’s okay to walk different places.
Go to the dog park
If you’re not sure how your dog will act at the dog park, start slow. Wait before going into the yard, and let your pup look at the other dogs. After a while take them inside with their leash still on. Let them sniff around and potentially greet the other dogs. If everything is going well, let them off the leash.
If your dog is hesitant, scared, or shows some aggression, then it would be better to start with something less crowded. Like a play date.
Have play dates
These play dates can be with a family member or a friend’s dog. You can start by walking with your friend and their dog 1-2 times a week. Once both of your dogs get comfortable with each other, you can try letting them play off leash in a safe area.
If this goes well, you can then try going to the dog park to see how your dog will do with a bigger group of dogs.
Visit with friends and family
This activity will help your dog get used to other people. It will teach them that it’s okay for people to come over to your home, as well as going to another home.