The COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly everyone around the world and has been detrimental to our social lives.
The same can be said for our dogs, as they are not being exposed to other animals or people like they normally would.
If you have recently adopted a puppy, or have a younger dog, and are looking for ways to socialize them during this time, there are a few easy things you can do to aide in their social development to have them prepared for when things get back to normal.
Sit with your dog outside
One of the easiest things that you can do is to simply sit outside with your dog.
If you have a fence you can let your dog walk around in your yard where they will be able to see and get used to neighbors, their pets and any other animals that may be in the surrounding area.
Since your dog has been cooped up in the house for so long, they will be stimulated by all of these new experiences.
Mix up your outfits
If your dog typically only comes into contact with you or your family members during this time, it is suggested to mix up your outfits to include different sunglasses, hats and other clothing that may make it tough for your pup to recognize you right away.
Bring these items with you when you leave the house and put them on before you enter again to have them think they are meeting a new person for the first time.
For even greater effectiveness, you can leave and enter your home at odd times.
Take your dog for a car ride
Another great way to socialize your dog during the pandemic is to take them for car rides.
While you may be thinking that this won’t actually have them interact with other animals or humans, it will still be beneficial as they will be exposed to new sights and sounds that they may have never experienced before.
Consider driving them to a place that gets a lot of visitors such as the grocery store or mall and roll down the windows to have them get used to people.
For even more stimuli, have your puppy sit at the entrance of stores and walk past schoolyards at lunch or drop off to get them exposed to children. Make sure to give them treats when they let people pass without barking at them.
Expose your dog to different sounds
Being indoors for the majority of the pandemic may have also prevented your dog from experiencing all of the sounds that they would normally come in to contact with.
It is suggested to find different soundtracks or videos on the internet that can be played inside your home to simulate different things such as birds and crickets chirping, other dogs barking and more.
If you have tried each of these ideas and are still looking for ways to socialize your pet, consider adopting another dog. Our team at Copper Canyon Labradoodles offers a selection of labradoodle puppies that are raised in our family home.
Each of our exceptional quality non-shedding Australian Labradoodle puppies, are loved and cared for the right way and will make wonderful family pets.
To learn more about our adoption process, current and upcoming litters and more, feel free to contact us today at our Vancouver Island, BC, Canada location.