Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: How to Socialize an Anti-Social Dog
If owning an anti-social dog leaves you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated, you’re in good company! Dogs are usually outgoing, social, and inquisitive beings, but how do you deal with a dog that is fearful of new situations, or just simply unwilling to interact with others?
Believe it or not, training your anti-social dog starts with how YOU react to your pet! Here are a few pointers to help assist you in training an anti-social dog.
You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!
Of course, the younger your dog is the easier it is to break bad habits; but you can teach an old dog new tricks!
Dogs are more receptive to training lessons between 3 and 12 weeks of age but with the right tools, you can be successful with training older dogs too.
Teaching any dog requires patience, practice, and consistency. Your commands need to be direct and simple. Once your pooch has mastered your first commands slowly increase your training. It is easier to train your dog if he/she listens well and comes to you when called. Continually practice all the commands you wish your pet to follow and give plenty of praise.
The secret to success is always being prepared with lots of treats.
Use a Leash or Harness Until Your Dog Becomes Social
Have your dog on a leash or harness until you are confident that he/she will follow your commands; this gives you the control to remove your dog quickly if any threatening or aggressive situations happen.
If your dog feels uncomfortable remove him/her quickly to a quiet area until there are no further signs of distress. Back away a few feet and give praise if you sense and your dog is anxious about an approaching another dog or person.
If you think your dog will nip or bite others, try using a muzzle until your dog shows no further signs of aggression.
Keep Your Voice and Body Language Neutral and Direct
Most of us tend to become loud and frantic if our dog tears off baring teeth and barking. Now isn’t the time to scream and charge after Fido. Keeping yourself calm and composed will defuse a stressful encounter.
Dogs pick up on our fears and anxieties and will respond accordingly. Speak kindly and gently when giving commands but firmly enough so your dog knows you are in control.
Don’t yank your dog back harshly by the leash; this only startles and frightens your dog. Hold the leash firmly and talk gently.
Expose Your Dog Gradually to New Situations
Don’t take your dog out walking once and expect him to master socialization. It takes time and short periods of exposure to new situations to help your dog become comfortable.
If your dog is nervous and shy, don’t force her to interact with other dogs until you see signs of readiness. You may decide to expose your dog slowly by walking outside the fence of a dog park for a few days first before taking your dog inside the enclosure.
Keep outings short to begin with and increase the duration of each trip when your dog is ready. You may have a dog that simply doesn’t like being with too many dogs at one time. Your dog will be the best one to let you know what it’s comfortable with.
Perhaps try socializing your dog with other dogs you are familiar with to start.
Dog Walking Groups or Doggie Day Care Can Keep Your Dog Socialized
Dogs are usually social, pack animals and learn from watching other animals in the group. Exposure is crucial in keeping your dog healthy and social.
Dogs need and thrive on healthy interactions from other animals and people, therefore, dog walking groups and doggie day care can provide this exposure.
Dog walkers and doggie daycare staff are trained with animal interactions and understand canine behaviours; this encourages a safe environment for socialization.
If everything you tried still doesn’t work and your dog remains stubborn and anti-social, you may want to consider dog training classes. Ask a professional dog grooming salon or your Veterinarian for reputable courses or local trainers.
Contact us at Pet City Canada for further information regarding our awesome Doggie Daycare. We’d love to help socialize your pet with new canine friends in our indoor and outdoor spaces. Once you’re registered, you can even book online!