If there is one thing that I repeatedly say to puppy owners, regardless of the breed, it is, "Socialize, socialize and socialize!" However, over the years, how I recommend socializing has shifted quite a bit from what I used to teach when I was younger.

First, don't get tied up with your dog needing to have play dates and puppy friends outside of your home. They need to be socialized where they won't react to strange dogs outside of the home or if you bring other dogs into your home, and while play dates can be great, they don't need to be the main focus of your socialization. That isn't to say that socializing with play dates or attending a puppy daycare is bad, however, it is better to do in small groups and to avoid really busy places, such as dog parks.

Second, know your dog. There are dogs that are social butterflies. They love people, they love other animals, they thrive when they head off to doggy daycare. That is great. However, there are dogs, and not just for breed disposition although that can play a part, who are not social butterflies. They tolerate puppy play dates and doggy daycare but they want to be home without the stresses of socializing...I know I tend to fall in the category of that second dog. With those dogs, one or two select dogs they play with is more than ample opportunity for socialization.

The key is that you need to understand your dog, how he reacts to socialization and other dogs to understand how to make socialization...and being social to the levels your dog can enjoy...a positive experience.

Third, ignore the myth that socialization is dog to dog or dog to people. While that is part of socialization, it is actually something that starts at a very young age. You can read my article on the milestones of puppy socialization to learn more. In addition, socialization is both active and passive. Passive socialization is just day to day experiences that aren't planned for, such as a rainstorm or seeing a bee for the first time. Often, your not even aware that your dog is having a socialization experience because you are not actively introducing the stimulation. The rest are planned socialization, such as running the vacuum for the first time or meeting going to the hardware store for meeting crowds (which are all active).

However, regardless of your dog or lifestyle, socialization is a very important part of dog ownership. Studies have shown that a puppy that is not properly socialized are at a greater risk of developing severe behavioral problems and it is often the number one reason why dogs are rehomed or relinquished to shelters.

While socialization should be a lifelong endeavor, it is imperative to socialize your puppy to a fast array of situations, experiences, people and animals. The more you socialize, the more your puppy will be relaxed when introduced to a new situation.

According to studies, by 12 weeks of age, your puppy should be introduced to a 100 different experiences and people. To help you navigate the many, many things you will need to introduce your puppy to, I have created this easy to use checklist. I have also provided you with rules of 5.

Try to expose your puppy to the experience at five different opportunities, spaced out over a six month period. More exposure is best but you want to get in five opportunities at least. In addition, try to maintain a calm manner when introducing these new experiences and praise your puppy when he accepts the new experience. Never praise or baby if he becomes fearful as this will reinforce the fear behavior. If your puppy is timid or scared, don’t force exposure but gradually build up to a confident exposure. Remember, negative events can create negative socialization in a puppy and dog.