Training Tips: Socializing a Puppy During Social Distancing

How Do You Socialize a Puppy While Maintaining Social Distancing?

During a time when social distancing and working from home has become the new normal due to COVID-19, one of the greatest comforts has come from our four-legged friends. And for many families, this has resulted in becoming first-time puppy adopters, thanks to having more time at home to train them. But how do you socialize a puppy while maintaining social distancing? Even though we may not be able to take our new puppy family members to many new places to socialize right now, the Arizona Humane Society’s Pet Behavior Team suggest that there are many new experiences you can give your pet at home to help them become well socialized, happy and healthy pups.

• Pull out objects or appliances she has never seen before and reward your puppy with praise and treats for going up to investigate.
• Place some interesting materials on the floor to get your puppy used to walking on different surfaces. Things like cardboard, metal baking trays, wood, or pillows work great!
• Play dress up and wear different hats.
• Use the view from your window or front yard or sitting in your car with the air conditioning to go “people watching.” Reward your puppy for looking at people, cars, dogs and other interesting sights from a distance.

More pet behavior tips are available here. AHS is now offering In-Home Private Lessons, in addition to its Virtual Pet Training Lessons for those who are in need of additional help from pet training and behavior experts! Click the button below to learn more.

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