Socialization Month - Socialization What it is, What it isn't

Socialization What it is? 

As you probably know, socialization is a big deal for a service dog, it's what sets them up for their entire career. The problem is that poor socialization can do more harm than good, and there are so many misconceptions and plain old bad advice floating around out there. We are help break things down to make it easier.

You may hear that socialization includes:  

▻ It's introducing a puppy to places, people, and things. 

▻ It's about getting the puppy used to things.

▻ It's about making the puppy comfortable around different people and dogs.

 And while all that is included, there is much more to it. 

Definitions 

1.) In humans Socialization can be defined as: A continuing process whereby an individual acquires a personal identity and learns the norms, values, behavior, and social skills appropriate to his or her social position."

 2.) For puppies we like Laura VanArendonk Baugh's definition in her book on puppy socialization "Social, Civil & Savvy " in which she says:
 
“Socialization is the acquisition of cultural habits and
social communication an individual to live in society."

 3.) A more comprehensive definition is: It’s about setting up behaviors, habits, and communication skills he will use for the rest of his life. Once again that all important foundation building. 

So what do all these definitions add up to? That while socialization includes a lot of exposure to those aforementioned places, people and things, it’s about HOW we do it as much as what we do. 

Does socialization need a plan? Absolutely, remember in last week's blog,  Socialization month - Plans , we talked about using logs, videos, and notes, with socialization keeping track of your puppies progress is crucial. You don’t have to have a list, just a general map of when and how things will progress. This plan can be very fluid, and will change often, and that’s ok. A simple visit to your back yard can unlock a whole new world to a young service dog puppy. 

Image: Leo, a service dog puppy resting under a bush. 

Socializing what it isn’t. 

So many mistakes can be made when socializing your puppy but if you keep a few misconceptions, and the actuality in mind you will be on your way: 

Shouldn’t I take my puppy everywhere? In our opinion his is a resounding no. 
Often times you will here people in service dog groups talking about taking their puppies ‘everywhere’ for socialization. You want to introduce them to all your family and friends and all the things they may eventually come in contact with. Why this is impractical and even unhealthy: 

    a.) I can just put them in a stroller or *shopping cart. 

        Puppies need to be protected from illness and injury. Even
        in a dog stroller they are still exposed to certain viruses and
        despite trying to contain them accidents do happen.

    b.) Doesn’t my puppy want to be with me all the time?

         They may think they do but puppies need a lot of
         sleep when they are young, up to
         18 - 20 hours a day. This helps them grow and thrive.
         Plus we don’t want to accidentally create separation
         anxiety. They can start their socializing at home and
         still get the sleep, and quiet they need. 

    c.) Is it really bad if my puppy has an accident when we are out? 

        Puppies need routines, especially when potty training. We want
        to set them up for success so you want to avoid potty accidents
        when out at other peoples homes and/or even pet friendly locations.
 
(*A shopping cart is not a place for service dog puppies.) 

Don’t they need to be exposed to things? 

Yes they do, however many people seem to think that their puppies not only need to see everything and everyone, but learn to like or adapt to it as well. However, this thought process can really overwhelm a puppy and they may become fearful and shut down.

But I only have a certain amount of time to socialize right? 

In most cases it is ideal to socialize you puppy during those first critical weeks, however remember that their socialization actually starts when they are still with their mom, and siblings. The 8 - 16 week time frame is great for when you get them home. So although you do want to get started, start slowly and always watch your puppy for signs of stress and being overwhelmed. Keep in mind that socialization can continue throughout that first year and still be very beneficial.

So when and where do I socialize? 

We have that all outlined and will share it with you in our next blog. For now just do a little advanced planning if you are still waiting to get your puppy, or if you already have your puppy, think about everything your puppy has already experienced, make a list, and think about their reactions. 

Have questions about this or any of the blogs? Join and ask in our facebook group: Train you service dog with confidence (positive reinforcement training).  

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🗓️ Next week: Socialization - When and Where

Hint: Puppy classes are another tool in socializing. We highly recommend doing your research in advance of your puppy coming home including asking to monitor a class to see how the trainer handles the group and puppies. We would shy away from a free for all play class.

Resources and recommended reading: 

Socialization Mini Course https://www.myservicedogandme.com/socialization

Laura VanArendonk Baugh’s Social, Civil & Savvy                                                                                                     

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) Position Statement on Puppy Socialization