Socialization:
Socialization: The process of learning to behave in a way that is acceptable in society.
Working backwards, we take the information provided to us and begin to build environments and behaviors that work in collaboration with each other in order to achieve a common goal. Societal norms are varied across cultures and environments. Even as I write this, I can not neglect the juxtaposition that is often asked of the “working dog.” A few moments ago, I worked our 3 dogs in protection exercises. Now, they gather on their place boards while we cook dinner. Both environments require a fair bit of socialization, that is, to create behaviors acceptable within each society.
For the family that is looking for the well-rounded pet, socialization will happen through constantly building proper mindsets of varied environments. For the family that is often hosting gatherings, the socialization process will be to help their pup remain calm and collected while numerous people enter and exit the home, including strangers and familial faces alike. I believe in the last post, we talked a fair bit about the Place command. This is a wonderful example of how each behavior will have ways that it transfers to other environments. For the family that will be taking their pup to restaurants, outings and boating events, their socialization work will be quite different. The environments require more focus on a broader sense of “societally acceptable behaviors”. These environments require us to help communicate how to mitigate an approaching dog, a small excited lovable child, unexpected noises and the plethora of those who pass-by.
We often use the term “neutral” when building a desirable mindset. Neutrality is being used as a means to convey a mindset that allows for an appropriate response instead of an inappropriate reaction.
What is and isn’t appropriate changes depending on what is being asked from the handler, situation and environment. Our initial asking of the pup is to notice the changes within the environment without reacting in an inappropriate way. As we think about helping create a neutral pup, we do not want to neglect the other features necessary in order to achieve this mindset. Confidence is a huge piece to this ever evolving puzzle. Many of us can recall a situation where a pup or human for that matter, enters a space and immediately behaves in an inappropriate way. As we begin to understand what motivates, we have learned that this behavior is often brought on by a desire to create space from a stressor, a preemptive strike if you will. From a defensive perspective, these behaviors are being used as a self-preservation tactic. Imagine going places and constantly feeling uneasy, to the point of reacting in such a way. We want our pups to live a wonderful life, one of empowerment and happiness.
Each pup and human are going to have their own spectrum of how comfortable they feel, naturally. This isn’t a discussion of “either/or” but of “both/and”. When building properly socialized pups, we want our nurturing to build on what nature has naturally given us. This means that each prescription is going to be different from pup to pup. Each protocol will be designed to bring out the full potential of each pup. When working with a professional, make sure to be open and honest with previous behaviors. There is no shame or judgement, only love and hope. Each trainer will have their own way, but ultimately we are working to sincerely build the relationship between you and your pup. Take time and think about the sessions. Write down any questions that you might have. Comment on what you learned. All of this is stored in a way to continuously build better sessions for you and your pup.
Socialization has become a catch-all term for a lot of important behaviors. It takes time and can be delicate. To some, it is helping a pup learn to play with other pups; to others, it’s teaching them how to become more neutral and not approach other dogs while in public.
Take your time and advocate for your dog. There are misconceptions centered around what socialization should look like. It isn’t the same for everyone. Many hopefully teams will find themselves forcing interactions. Dog parks are always a hotbed issue. Given the risk/reward opportunity, it can be very difficult to navigate. Reversely, working with a well-balanced trainer who introduces pack-work properly, can bring out the best in your pup. When your pup tells you what they’re thinking, believe them. Help them. Y’all are a team. It is you, your village and your pup. You all wear the same jersey.
As always. Be kind and rewind.
Hampton brooks
-Eastern shore canine
Edited and reprised by: Cameron Smith
