Is my puppy already playing with other dogs?
Playing together and getting to know each other, for example by sniffing each other, is part of your puppy’s socialization. The first phase is called early socialization. This takes place between the first 4 to 12 weeks of life when the puppy is still with the breeder. Almost all puppies are born in one litter, i.e. with siblings, and are therefore never alone. With many breeders it is also the case that several litters are born at the same time and there are therefore many other dogs to discover.
How your puppy gets along with other dogs depends very much on socialization from an early age. The experiences your little friend has here can show you how your dog will later interact with other dogs. It is therefore important that you monitor the play behavior your puppy shows. If a puppy is never corrected when it growls at another dog, it will think this is normal behavior. While your puppy is still with its mother, this correction is her job, but once the puppy is home with you, you must do it.
Out into the world!
After the early socialization period, your little pup will continue to mature. Your puppy can now play with other dogs! But what should you do if you and your pup encounter another dog? Very simple, put him on a leash (if you haven’t already) and get your four-legged friend’s attention. This will teach him to pay attention to you whenever another dog is around. If you repeat this often enough, your pup will naturally turn his attention to you, handy right? This way you stay in control and give your dog structure.
Direct comparison
If you meet a dog that is on a leash, be sure to leash your pup as well. It’s not for nothing that the other dog is kept on a leash. Your pup will want to play with their fellow dogs, however, some dogs on leash can be aggressive toward your pup!
The time of secondary socialization
As an experienced dog owner, it’s easy to judge other dogs. If you encounter another dog that is on leash, you need to be able to judge how they will react to your puppy. If the dog looks menacing, let your pup run on the other side and avoid the other dog. You don’t want your pup to have a bad experience. The secondary socialization phase is between the ages of 12 weeks and half a year.
During this stage you may find that your puppy is generally less open and curious than before and is gradually approaching puberty. He recovers less quickly from unpleasant experiences, so he can later develop fear of other dogs more quickly. A frightened dog will often want to flee or fight. Neither is a nice experience for your little four-legged friend or for you. So socialization is very important!
conflicts among themselves
Dogs having fun together are naturally incredibly cute when they run, frolic and swim together. In some cases, however, not all dogs involved have the same fun. They can be overwhelmed, dominated, or even growled at. As an owner, you have to recognize this in good time and be able to intervene before things threaten to go wrong. Every dog is different in terms of physique and personality. If your dog is the «bad guy» in a situation, it’s important that you intervene immediately.
The owner of the affected dog will surely appreciate that. So be clear and consistent with your commands from an early age, don’t let your dog get away with such behavior and correct him if necessary. This will avoid many problems later.