The Need For Socialization Of Animals
We have already talked a lot about the importance of socializing animals, since it allows them to be balanced and happy, and to have good behavioral behaviors.
This is a proven fact, because both humans and animals are made to be together with others, except for the exceptions that confirm the rule. Therefore, the need for socialization of animals is something innate in them. We tell you why and what the benefits are.
The reason for the socialization of animals
Since they are born, animals – whether they are pets or not – need several weeks and, in some cases, several months to be with their mother and siblings to lay the foundations on their personality, which will be the ones that mark their behavior for life. This period is one of the most important in the life of any animal, especially if we are going to have it as a pet.
An animal that does not socialize well during this first period of its life tends to be aggressive, disobedient and, in many cases, may even have mental problems or destructive behaviors. This is the first step towards a good development of the puppy, although then the moment comes when he comes home and begins another different socialization process.
It is normal that, even having socialized in its first weeks of life, when an animal comes home it is shy or scared. But that’s where your job comes into play to help him feel good and continue the socialization process.
The way you do it will make a difference in his personality, as he could be a skittish or a happy and sociable animal. Therefore, you should know that socialization does not only involve getting them used to being with other animals or people, but also getting them used to common noises and sounds that are at home or on the street, such as:
- Different environments.
- Sound stimuli.
- Common noises at home such as the toilet, music or children crying.
- Movements of people at home or on the street.
Treating the puppies as if we wanted to keep them in a glass bubble is not a good idea, because we will not fulfill a correct socialization task. Therefore, let him get used to a normal rhythm of life.
However, keep in mind that exposure to these stimuli must be gradual, since wanting to force the situation could lead us to receive the opposite effects.
Can you socialize an adult animal?
Everything we have talked about is fine if we bring a puppy home, but what if we have adopted an adult animal and it exhibits behaviors typical of a non-socialized animal? Well, in this case you have to know if it is possible to socialize it and how to do it.
Obviously, this is going to be more complicated, because with a puppy we start from scratch and here we will have to eradicate bad behaviors and then teach the new ones. It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible either. Try to gradually introduce the animal to its new environment and give it time to get used to it.
Try to help him interact with other animals and people in a peaceful way, and always reward his efforts and achievements by practicing positive reinforcement. This is undoubtedly one of the best methods for an adult dog to learn to socialize. Using yelling, hitting or punishing will only accentuate their misbehavior.
If you see it necessary, you can go to a professional to help you out, because as we said at the beginning, the socialization of adult animals is not easy. If you put everything on your part, you will make your pet balanced and happy.
