- Crate train. Even if you leave your dog out when mature, crate train. Most issues with destruction, eating things dogs shouldn't, and many other issues are solved by crate training. And consider transporting your dog safely, stay overs at a boarding facility or the vet's, or needing to leave them in a room with a raw steak on the counter. Crates are the answer for that too!
- Socialization isn't about meeting other dogs and people. Really. It isn't. It's about exposing your dog to the daily world and teaching them to focus on you. Would you believe me if I told you my dogs have never been to puppy play groups, they never ever say hi to other dogs on walks, and they certainly don't say hi to people either unless permission is asked and given? That's actually normal! Let your dog have one or two friends and that's seriously good enough.
- Dog parks- we don't use them, but if you must, use extreme caution. Seriously. Go ask a long time breeder, sport handler, or working handler what they think of dog parks. If you absolutely can't imagine life without them, take precautions!
- Keep your dogs away from other dogs out and about. We don't care if they are friendly, and we don't care if they won't hurt anything. You and your dog don't have the right to interact with others, and you never know when a dog is sick, injured, training, working, or reactive. Use the leash, and don't come within 30 feet without asking first.
- All dog owners should learn the basics of body language. In my opinion, this is far more important than teaching a dog to sit. You need to know how your dog feels about things and you need to be able to read a situation.
- Bonus: Don't let your dog stare at other dogs. Bad plan. Even with the little ones. People always wonder why my dogs hackle at the little ones yapping and pulling at the end of the leash- those little ones are being confrontational. Help other dog owners by making sure your own dog is acting appropriately and focused on YOU.
Source: Manitoba Dog Training and Ethical Breeding Education
