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A dog in public behaving badly, barking or growling at other people or dogs, is right up there with a rude kid or tantruming toddler: people stare and judge, and parents feel embarrassed and helpless. But just like children, dogs can – and should – be taught to behave properly around others. Socialization is a key part of dog training, and should be practiced and reinforced daily.

Here are a few ways to socialize your dog to be around other people and pups.

1. Take daily walks – The simple act of passing other people and dogs and stopping to chat with neighbors gets your dog used to being around others. When they are only let out to roam their own backyard, they do not get this important time to socialize.
2. Go to a dog park – Generally, people who frequent dog parks have well-behaved dogs. There are exceptions, of course, but it’s a good place to start. With puppies and young dogs, start slow and stay outside the fence, letting them observe other dogs. When your dog moves closer to the fence and seems eager to join in, let them!
3. Schedule a pup playdate – You read that right! Just as moms set up playdates with other children of the same age (and ideally temperament), dog-parents can schedule a little one-on-one time to help their pups find some new besties.
4. Send them to dog daycare – If you are away from home a lot, consider sending Fido to dog daycare. Kennels that offer this service have behavior and vaccine requirements for dog attendees, and trained professionals on staff to help dogs interact with one another in a safe environment. New Inn Kennels, offering dog boarding, dog daycare and grooming in East Haddam, Connecticut, also provides “Board & Play” services for boarding dogs during their stay which allows dogs to socialize with one another for at least 2 hours per day.

Being confident that you can take your dog in public – to festivals, on hikes, to the dog park, even into the pet store! – requires training and practice. Follow these tips to practice socializing every day!

You already know your dog benefits from physical exercise, but did you know it’s just as important to stimulate those little doggy noggins as well? Especially for dog-parents who work during the day, boredom is a reality. If your dog isn’t being mentally stimulated enough, they may be telling you in their own unique way, by chewing, scratching, ‘singing,’ or otherwise making mischief to keep themselves entertained.

Here are a few tips for providing mental stimulation for your dog.

Choose Temperament & Breed-Appropriate Activities

Whether you have a purebred dog or a purely adorable mutt, your dog’s temperament and breed can be a good indicator of the type of mental stimulation they need to thrive. For example, a bulldog probably isn’t going to excel at an agility course, but may spend hours sniffing, pawing and snorting at a treat puzzle.

Dog breeds were created for a specific purpose: to hunt, herd, find, protect, etc. So finding mentally stimulating activities that support these strengths can be a good starting point. Of course, every dog is different and their own temperament will ultimately dictate what they find stimulating.

When You’re Together
Training – whether at home or with a professional – is a great way to bond with your pup while also providing the mental stimulation they crave. Even if your dog is already well behaved, obedience training can help them focus and work on new commands. If you truly have zero issues with behavior, consider training to help them learn more advanced commands and even ‘tricks’ to stimulate their gray matter and give them a sense of accomplishment.

When You’re Away
Again, dogs get bored! If you’re gone for most of the day, consider toys and activities that can keep them mentally stimulated throughout the day.

Treat puzzles are a great way to keep doggies interested and focused. You can also try “find and seek” type toys, or install a pet camera that allows you to interact with your dog during the day (some even dispense treats!).

Just like people, dogs need (and enjoy!) mental stimulation. One-on-one work with owners and trainers, combined with toys that challenge and entertain them, can make a happier and healthier pooch!

OK, so maybe a pushup is unrealistic. But, exercise is a vital part of any dog’s life — even the laxidasical snoozers that would have you believe otherwise. Dogs are simply happier and healthier when they have physical stimulation and exercise – just like people! And, if your pooch is home alone all day, it’s even more important to make sure they get plenty of time getting physical when you’re home.

Here’s what you need to know.
Choose Physical Activities Based On Breed And Temperament

We touched on this briefly in our last post, but it’s important to match your dog’s breed, size, and temperament with their physical activity. For example, your chihuahua isn’t likely to run a 5k with you, but they still need a healthy 30 minute walk daily to get out their energy.

If you’re trying to decide on a dog breed, the level of activity they require – and your availability – should be major factors. If you already have a dog and you’re finding it needs more physical stimulation and exercise than you’re able to provide, consider a dog daycare in your area!

On The Leash
For people living in apartments and neighborhoods, sometimes the only option for physical activity is walking your dog on the leash. And that’s fantastic!  Getting your pooch out into the neighborhood, letting them see and smell their surroundings (and other dogs!) is important for physical, mental, and social stimulation.

When possible, try to take new routes, check out different areas, and give your dog enough leash to feel like they’re exploring on their own.
Off The Leash

Dogs need to run FREE! These days, you don’t have to live on acreage to let your pups run wild. While opening the back door and letting your dogs run out in your fenced backyard is a great start, it’s possible to do more for your best friend. Many towns have created dedicated “dog parks” — often at your local favorite walking or kids’ park! As long as your dog is properly socialized, this is a great opportunity to let your dog go nuts with other dogs in a safe space. 

Your dog wants to move it – and it’s a great motivation to get yourself moving as well!