Donna Green, pet behaviour expert: The importance of socialising dogs

Donna Green is an East Devon based, professionally qualified pet behaviour expert. She offers dog training and animal behaviour advice to help owners understand their pets better and tackle behavioural problems. In her latest column, she outlines the importance of dog socialisation..

Having a social dog that can respond to your cues amid distractions is a dream; however, if you have a social dog that does not always respond to your cues, it can be seen as a menace to many people.

It is important that you start them young, but this does not mean that you cannot socialise an older dog. The important thing to remember is go at their pace, recognise when they are worried and do not push them into situations where they feel uncomfortable.

As soon as you get your puppy take them to places; although you need to be careful until they have received all of their primary vaccinations. Carry them in your arms, take them for a ride in the car, so they can see the big wide world in a safe way.

Don't let them approach other dogs that are on leads

If you are walking your dog in a public place off lead, and you cannot rely on their recall if you see another dog, either keep them close, or on a long line so you have control. It is not okay for your dog to run up to another dog that is on the lead.

There may be multiple reasons for this including recovery from surgery, recovery from illness, may not appreciate other dogs in their face and may react, or they may be a new dog, new owner combination and are building their bond. If you see another dog on a lead, please put yours back on their lead if passing close by.

If you have a dog that can be anxious in new situations or around new people and dogs, allow your dog to lead the situation if they want to meet or not. Signs of anxiety include lip licking, yawning, and turning their body away, so watch out for these signals. Never force them into a situation, this can be with other dogs, bin bags or road signs.

The gradual approach to an unfamiliar situation

I was walking my dog last year and we came across a new road sign as they were planning some works. We stopped about five metres away as he was not sure of this strange thing. I let him think about it and moved forward a couple of steps and he followed me, then stopped. We did this until he was confident enough to approach and investigate the sign. He had a sniff, then we walked on. The following day the sign was ignored.

If I had forced him to walk past on that first occasion his anxiety levels would have risen, and he would not be able to learn that it was nothing to be scared of.

Some dogs I have been working with recently bark at other dogs and handlers; in this situation you need to ascertain if there is a fear or play motivation, as the advice is different. If you require any help or advice, please consult a reputable behaviourist.

Disclaimer: if your pet is experiencing problems contact a qualified behaviour counsellor so they can design a programme suitable for you and your pet and work closely with you.

For more information, visit Donna's website.