Making new friends isn’t always easy. Some dogs will have trouble making friends. Others won’t have any problems bonding with other dogs. It’s really up to your dog’s personality and training. The good news is that there are things you can do to help them make friends easier. Check out these tips on helping your pup make new pals.
Socialize your dog early and often
We can’t stress the importance of socializing your dog enough. Every dog isn’t going to be an extrovert, but socialization gives them valuable tools for the future. It makes them more confident in new situations and less scared of new things.
Set up a dog playdate
Taking your dog straight to the crowded dog park may not be a good idea. Setting up a one-on-one playdate with a dog and owner you can trust is a safer way to get started. Try to make sure the dog is a similar size and temperament to yours as well.
Train your dog to respond to commands
Training vocabulary is a vital part of keeping your dog safe and happy. Telling them to “come” can avoid distractions or dangerous animals. Teaching them to “drop it” or “leave it” may save another animal or protect your dog from hurting itself.
Go to a dog park you can trust
In a perfect world, every dog park would be safe and every dog would be friendly. This is not always the case. Make sure your first visit to the dog park is during less crowded times. Also, ask other dog owners about the safety of the dog park. Not every dog owner is going to take the steps you are.
Don’t force them
Forcing your dog into a situation where they don’t feel safe or comfortable can work against you. Giving your dog a choice and positively reinforcing the right one will go a long way to making more dog friends. Try to make sure their interactions with other dogs are a positive experience. Reward their good behavior and they will learn the best ways to interact.
H2H Canine Orphanage
Home 2 Home is a non-profit canine orphanage revolutionizing the way dogs find their perfect homes. We consider ourselves an orphanage versus a traditional shelter because we provide needs-based care. We also have licensed trainers on staff, veterinary care, flowing water, and always-available beds. Their better life starts when we get them, but their best life is after they’re adopted to their forever home. Learn more about us and our story.