Socializing your doodle is an important part of his or her early weeks and months with you. When making plans to go out and about, do keep in mind his immunity and keeping him safe from potential illnesses and exposure to unvaccinated animals until after his 16-week vaccinations. Doodles are wonderful companions, and many families enjoy taking their new family members on car rides, vacations, or out simply out and about with them for daily tasks. Having a well socialized dog makes these adventures more enjoyable for both you AND your pup! Below we have outlined a few areas in which it is important (and easy!) to socialize your dog by including him in your daily life and routine.
People
It is good for puppy to be exposed to a variety of people. If he only knows you, he can eventually see anyone that is not you as a threat. Introducing your puppy to different types/ages/sizes of people is an important part of socialization. Here at Morning Glory Doodles your puppy will have an early start on this, but it is important that it continues. Additionally, people wearing different types of clothing, like hats, hoodies, and sunglasses can be helpful for a puppy to be exposed to in the first few months home.
Sights and sounds
Your puppy will benefit from being exposed to various noises and sights. Living in a city like Atlanta, Nashville, or Knoxville is a perfect opportunity to socialize your dog. As you take him on walks, he is taking in the activity, the sounds, and the objects that you may not even notice anymore! Car noise, lights, people talking, streetlights, strollers, and other city sights are all good experiences for a young dog living in a city to grow accustomed to. In a neighborhood, being exposed to bicycles, skateboards, and other toys and recreational vehicles might be helpful.
Home
Your home is also a great place to socialize your puppy! Different types of flooring, various lighting, stairs, the doorbell, a phone ringing, the TV, vacuum-all of these are everyday things to us, but may be new to your puppy! Doing your normal, daily tasks around your puppy will help him or her grow used to these various experiences and sounds. Going on car rides regularly will also help your pup to associate the car with spending time with you-if he or she only rides in the car to go to the vet or groomer he may associate the car with something he finds unpleasant.
Grooming
Your pup won’t be able to visit a professional groomer until he or she is older, but you can begin helping him become used to various grooming activities yourself! Bathing and brushing are important for doodles!
Socializing your dog is easy and rewarding! Please reach out to us here at Morning Glory Doodles if you have any questions about how to best socialize your Goldendoodle or Irishdoodle puppy.
