“Let him come closer, that way he'll get used to it.” The phrase usually appears when a dog hesitates in front of another. But being close does not guarantee a good experience. If he cannot withdraw, the encounter may be too difficult.
Socializing implies much more than accumulating greetings. We care that the dog can live safe experiences and develop resources to inhabit his environment. At times, watching from a certain distance and continuing the walk will be a sufficient goal.
The experience matters more than the quantity
In puppies there is an especially sensitive period for socialization. The AVSAB recommends safe early experiences, avoiding excessive fear and overstimulation. Planning should be coordinated with the veterinarian to consider health protection and individual circumstances. [11]
That does not mean taking a puppy to just any park or isolating him from all experiences until a date chosen without guidance. It is worth asking what he can meet, under what conditions and with what precautions.
For an adult dog, new experiences must also adapt to what he can handle. Do not compare him with a puppy or assume he needs to come into physical contact with everything he sees.
Let the encounter have a way out
Imagine a visitor wants to meet your dog. You can ask them to wait, avoid leaning over him and leave a path for him to withdraw. The goal of that visit does not have to be that they end up hugging.
On the street, having space allows modifying the encounter before it becomes complicated. If your dog tenses up, tries to escape or reacts intensely, increase the distance calmly. When these responses are repeated, it is worth seeking veterinary evaluation and behavioral support to identify what is happening. [12]
A well-chosen exposure can be very discreet. Watching a bicycle pass from a quiet place offers a different situation from being trapped among several. Do not turn difficulty into a test of bravery.
Define a small goal
Before going out, choose a concrete expectation: walk along a familiar street, observe a stimulus at a distance or pass near an area without stopping. Afterwards check whether the conditions were adequate. If they were not, adjust the plan; you don't need to insist until you achieve the image you imagined.
You can have a phrase prepared for other people: “Today we're going to pass without greeting, thanks.” It is clear and avoids long explanations while you attend to your dog.
At Huella we care that coexistence is built with respect for each individual. A dog who can move through his environment without approaching everyone is not failing a social obligation. Knowing his limits helps you accompany him with better decisions.
Keep reading: Your Dog Also Takes Part in the Conversation · A Good Walk Leaves Time for Sniffing