Labrador Training: Socializing Your Labrador Puppy

Labrador training starts with proper socialization. Labrador Retrievers are a naturally kind and sociable breed, but just like any other dog, they too can develop behavioral problems if the time is not taken to properly socialize them. Socialization is also an essential part of forming your Lab puppy’s character as an adult.  

People: Let your Labrador meet your friends

The best way to start socializing your Lab puppy with new people is by inviting guests to your home. Let your visitors know that you’re in the socialization part of training and that it would be helpful if they don’t acknowledge your Lab puppy unless he or she is calm and behaves. You can also use commands such as “sit” and “down” during this time to reinforce good behavior in your puppy and avoid problems such as jumping or overexcitement. When your dog behaves, give a reward and praise.

Dogs: Expose your Lab to other dogs

Introducing your Labrador puppy to other dogs should be done in a neutral location to prevent territorial aggression. Start by placing the dogs on opposite sides of a fence until they feel comfortable with each other’s presence. Next, go for a walk with each person handling their own dog for 5 to 10 minutes or until they show signs of wanting to socialize. At this point, you can let the dogs meet each other, while redirecting your Labrador’s attention to you every 5 minutes or so to prevent him or her from getting anxious or too excited. Once the dogs are familiar with each other, the process can be repeated at home.

At home: Explore at home with your Lab puppy

There are many situations and objects at home that your Labrador may find scary if they aren’t properly introduced to them. Some of these things include fireworks, vacuum, fans, knocking on the door, deliveries, large objects such as chairs, washing machine, etc. The most important thing to remember when dealing with these types of things at home is keeping your composure. In certain situations such as with fireworks, it’s better if you don’t make a big deal out of you puppy’s fear, but rather redirect his or her attention to a game or another activity. This will reassure your dog that there is nothing to fear, whereas acknowledging the problem usually only makes it worse.   

Outside of your home

Once your Labrador puppy is fully vaccinated, you can begin socializing outside of your home. You and your dog should visit different places such as parks, pet stores and veterinary clinics as well as interact with different kinds of people including; people with physical disabilities (so the dog is not fearful of wheelchairs, canes, etc.) joggers, bicyclists, children, construction workers and more. It is also important that your puppy is exposed to different environments such as the city, country and the beach so that he or she gets used to all the different smells and noises. 

 My little dog – a heartbeat at my feet. ~Edith Wharton

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