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| Sunday, 3 April 2005 |
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Junior Observer |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Teaching your dog to socialise
The breed of dog you choose plays a large role in the dog's natural personality. Some breeds are more inclined to physically protect their property. These breeds require much work before they socialise with people. There is one important fact about dogs - breeds that are prone to aggression towards other dogs and animals, also have more problems around children. Be sure that they get a lot of exposure to pets and children. There is a natural dominant streak in some breeds. This causes the dog to take action for itself. With firm training, you can turn a dominant breed into a reliable pet. There are variations in personality in every breed, but you should plan ahead when picking up a dog with strong inherited traits. Look for a pup that is neither overly confident nor shy. Shy pups are more likely to bite out of fear and require more work at socialisation. Pups that show signs of assertiveness at an early age, can become aggressive as they mature. They will need the most expert care and training. Socialisation begins the day the pup comes home. Pups start bonding with people between 4 and 12 weeks. If they are not given the opportunity to play with people and other dogs during this period, many develop into poor learners, have a greater fear of people, animals, and noises, and are usually more shy and anti-social. Get them used to a collar and leash and get them out of the house. Until your pup's vaccination is complete, be cautious around parks and strange dogs. Try to enlist friends with well-behaved children and dogs to help. Playgrounds are great places to expose your pup to children. Encourage everyone you meet to pet your pup. Never stroke or soothe a pup that is frightened. This encourages a negative reaction. Your pet follows your lead. Always be happy and act excited at something new. Encourage them to follow you to investigate something they are unsure of. Try to make all new experiences positive. Teaching your pup the basic commands does more than make a well-behaved pet. It teaches the pup to look to you for guidance, and to trust you. A well-socialised dog will not lose its protection skills. It produces a more confident dog. It also helps to greatly reduce the incidents of bites to family, children, and guests. *** The Cruffs dog show is one of the most popular dog shows in the world and was held for the 102nd time this year in Britain. The day is said to be a "yearly reminder of the unwavering British passion for dogs". It is organised by the Kennel Club of Britain. The event saw 21,433 dogs representing 178 breeds competing for the 'Best in Show' title and trophy. This number included 723 dogs from 26 other countries as well.The dogs taking part display various talents such as bomb sniffing and rescue abilities. |
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| News | Business | Features
| Editorial | Security
| Politics | Produced by Lake House |
Dogs are pack animals and need to live in a group. But nowadays, we
find many of our dogs spending their days at home, alone. So how do we
mould a new puppy into an outgoing, confident dog? 
