I took a course from Dr. Watkins called "Savvy Socialization" and received certification after passing the test. Dogs go through typically four fear stages, not just one. The first one occurs around 9 weeks of age. Reputable breeders know this and generally will not let their pups go to a new home during this time. If you can, it is best to ask the breeder to board the puppy until 10 weeks of age. There are other fear stages with the last one occurring sometime between 15 to 17 months. If a dog experiences a difficult situation, it may take some work to get the dog past it. Prevention is the key. Another issue can happen when a pup is removed from mom and litter mates prior to eight weeks, which can impact the dog throughout their life. Many rescues and vets are familiar with the 3-3-3 rule. It generally takes a dog 3 days to decompress and start to feel safe in their new home. This is especially true if the dog was a stray, mistreated, or in a shelter. It generally takes 3 weeks for the dog to learn the routine and expectations and up to 3 months to actually bond and be a part of the family. Some people adopt a dog and return him almost immediately without giving ample time for the dog to decompress and adjust. The first 3 days we need to make sure the dog feels safe. The best way is to have a quiet and calm environment with an enclosed area (otherwise he may hide under your bed, too afraid to come out). Provide a crate, dog bed, a small mat or blanket, or even a large x-pen with appropriate toys out of the main traffic area of the home, but where you can see him. Avoid taking the pup everywhere during the first 3 days and certainly during the 9th week. When out and about or having friends over, don't permit them to rush straight up to the new dog and reach down to pet them on the head. This is quite fear inducing for dogs and it is the owner's job to make their dog feel safe. Just as you would not appreciate a total stranger rushing up to you with a big hug straight away, neither does your dog like it. You can politely tell people when you are out and about that your dog is in training, please do not pet. If you want the person to interact with your dog, have the person sit down and stroke the dog on the shoulder or scratch him behind the ear without reaching over the dog. Try to establish a schedule for potty, feeding, play and sleeping as dogs thrive on routine. After the first month, you may want to take your dog to a training class to help establish the bond with you as he learns his place in the family. consider an AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy class if your dog is under 1 year of age. And you might want to take the dog's mat with you when you go places to help him feel safe. Happy New Year and Happy training!
コメント