As the famous saying goes, every dog has its day. But for our pint-sized pals, encounters with their larger counterparts can sometimes feel like barking up the wrong tree. Is your little furry companion sporting a pair of trembling paws and a wary tail at the sight of bigger hounds? Fear not! We’re here to help lead you and your little mate down a path to confident camaraderie, turning those growls of fear into wags of friendship.
Why Is Socialising Important?
Socialising your dog is important for several reasons. For example, it helps your dog to become more comfortable and confident in different situations and around different people and animals. This can help to prevent fear and anxiety-related behaviours, such as aggression or excessive barking.
Socialising your dog can help prevent behavioural problems. This includes destructive chewing or digging, as it provides mental and physical stimulation. Also, socialising with your dog can help strengthen the bond between you and your pet. This provides opportunities for positive interactions and shared experiences.
Finally, socialising with your dog can help to keep them safe, as it teaches them to be more aware of their surroundings and less likely to run away or get into dangerous situations.
But, socialising a smaller dog, like a Mini Goldendoodle, for example, can be complicated. Here are the essential tips on how to socialise a fearful dog.
Hire A Professional Trainer
Hiring a professional trainer who knows how to communicate with smaller breeds can change the life of your furry bestie dramatically, for the better, of course. First, a professional trainer has the knowledge and experience to assess your dog’s behaviour properly. They can determine the best course of action for socialisation. They can create a customised training plan that takes into account your dog’s specific needs and personality. They will also consider your own goals and expectations.
A pro can also provide the tools and techniques to help your dog overcome their fear and anxiety around other dogs and people. They can teach you how to read your dog’s body language and respond appropriately. They can also tell you how to use positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour. Also, working with a professional trainer can help you avoid common mistakes that can worsen your dog’s fear and anxiety.
For example, many well-meaning owners try to comfort their fearful dogs by petting or holding them. But in some scenarios, this can reinforce the fear response and worsen the problem. A trainer can help you grasp why these types of actions are counterproductive. Thus, provide you with alternative strategies that are more effective.
One Big Doggo At The Time
Introducing smaller dogs to bigger pooches can be a bit tricky, but it can be done successfully if you take the right approach. It’s best to introduce them one dog at a time, rather than all at once. This will help to prevent any overwhelming situations and allow each dog to get to know each other in a more controlled environment. Start by introducing them to neutral territory, such as a park or a friend’s backyard.
Keep them on leads and allow them to sniff each other from a distance. If they seem comfortable, you can slowly allow them to get closer to each other. Keep a close eye on their body language and behaviour, and be ready to intervene if necessary. It’s important to remember that not all dogs will get along, regardless of their size. If you notice any signs of aggression or discomfort, it’s best to separate them and try again another time.
Like people, dogs can have bad days for socialising. Relatable, huh?
Benefits Of Socialising Your Fearful Dog
Many owners want to protect their fearful doggos by removing them from challenging environments. Sure, this can help the dog feel more comfortable, but in the long run, this is not the best solution. But, if you expose your dog to other bigger dogs in the right way, as we discussed, the benefits can be wonderful. They will be more confident and calm. This can help you train them more easily and make life more splendid for your pooch in general.
