Socialisation Tips for Puppies and Adult Dogs from Glasgow Vets
January 7, 2025
If you’ve recently welcomed a new puppy or adult dog into your home, you’re hopefully having a magical experience so far. However, now is the perfect opportunity to focus on their socialisation before things go awry.
Why not register your new pet and then book an appointment with our friendly team in Glasgow to discuss their individual needs?
Why socialisation is essential
Our team at Avenues Vets explain that socialisation helps puppies and adult dogs feel confident and relaxed in various situations. It’s not just about meeting other dogs in and around Lanarkshire, but also getting used to different environments, people, and sounds.
Not socialising your dog could result in nervous or reactive behaviours, which can be challenging to address later. The most effective socialisation period is during those early puppy months, when their brain is like a sponge and they are learning from everyone and everything around them. Socialising an adult dog can be more challenging but it is worth persevering with. In some cases, finding an experienced dog trainer may be helpful.
Key areas to focus on for socialisation
Interacting with other dogs
Allowing your dog to meet other dogs in a controlled environment is vital for teaching them how to communicate and behave appropriately. Dogs will learn from each other as well as taking cues from you as to what is deemed acceptable behaviour.
Exposure to different environments
Our nursing team in Glasgow have many years of experience talking to new pet owners about puppy and dog socialisation. Their advice is that socialising your pet means gradually introducing them to various settings, such as:
- Parks: A great place to meet other dogs and people.
- High Streets: Helps with getting used to crowds.
- Shops & Cafes: Helps them navigate indoor social scenes.
- Transport: Familiarise your dog with cars, trains, or buses.
There are some excellent places in and around Lanarkshire to socialise your puppy or adult dog. Help other local dog owners by sharing your experiences and favourite doggy spots on our Facebook page.
Handling and grooming
Handling exercises can help your dog get used to being touched, which is essential for grooming and visits to our vet practice in Glasgow.
Sounds and sights
Gradually expose your dog to new experiences, such as household appliances, firework noises (you can do this using pre-recorded sounds available from various places online), door knockers and bells, and anything else that could unsettle them if they’re not taught to be calm around it.
January is Walk Your Dog Month!
The cold winter weather in Lanarkshire can be challenging at times, but if it’s safe, a brisk walk can be excellent for heart health (for you both) and socialisation! January is Walk Your Dog Month – a great motivator to spend time outside, help your dog burn off energy, and build their confidence in the wider world.
Remember, if you have a puppy, once they are fully vaccinated, you’ll need to limit their walks to suit their breed, size, and age so as not to overwork and potentially damage their growing limbs. Talk to our team in Glasgow about your puppy’s specific exercise needs if you’re unsure – get in touch.
Need help with socialisation?
At Avenues Vets, our team can offer you guidance on the socialisation process. Whether it’s your first time owning a puppy or an adult dog, or you’re looking for new tips, we’re happy to help.
Why not register and then book an appointment to chat with our nurses?
