Today’s domestic dog often discovers itself in a place unlike that of its wild ancestors – a single canine living frequently in a pack without other same-species members with which to socialize throughout the day. Through play, our dogs discover, refine and practice appropriate dog-friendly signals and “peace-keeping” techniques designed to alleviate misunderstandings and maintain good social skills and bite inhibition, with other dogs and Humans.
Today’s top behaviourists’ all agree that without proper continuous exposure to other dogs, their social signals and graces deteriorate and eventually extinguish. The puppy classes only initiate the beginnings of a well socialized dog. There must be opportunities for socialization to continue on a consistent basis throughout the dogs’ lifetime.
“Socialization is an ongoing process. Dog-dog socialization also deteriorates during adolescence, often at an alarming rate, especially for the very small and very large dogs…..Here we’re in a vicious circle: the less the dog is socialized, the more he is likely to fight and thus be less socialized.” Dr. Ian Dunbar (1) Pages 166-167
“There is also a ‘use or lose it’ clause: animals will become increasingly fearful of things they may have encountered in the critical period but see too seldom thereafter….Artificial pressure needs to be constantly exerted to get animals to be have tolerantly. It must be instilled in the socialization period and diligently maintained thereafter.” Jean Donaldson (2) Page 61
“Through play….They learn how to use dog language to avoid conflicts. Social playgroups provide multiple potential playmates with different experiences and communication skills” Robin Bennett & Susan Briggs (3) Page 37
The Metro region needs well-managed, safe off leash parks for these socialization necessities to occur. Dog owners need to be aware of their profound responsibilities…ensuring their dogs are taken to areas designated for supervised off leash play, plus following the rules of the area with regard to cleaning up the waste, and maintaining control of their dogs.
To facilitate well socialized dogs in our society, the City management must also step up and recognize their responsibility to offer a balanced, realistic opportunity for citizens to access parks of this nature.
Before & After Getting Your Puppy (The Positive Approach to Raising a Happy, Healthy & Well-Behaved Dog) Dr. Ian Dunbar, New World Library (2004)
The Culture Clash Jean Donaldson, James & Kenneth Publishers (1996)
Off-Leash Dog Play (A Complete Guide to Safety & Fun), Robin Bennett, CPDT, & Susan Briggs, CKO, C&R Publishing, LLC (2008)
Susan Jordan, Professional Pet Dog Trainer
PAWS for Family and Friends
Phone: (902) 499-7569 E-mail: js.jordan@ns.sympatico.ca
