Preparing Dogs for First Impressions
You never get a second chance to make a first impression… unless you’re a dog.
First impressions matter and are a crucial step in preparing your dog to meet other people and eventually other dogs. While meeting people isn’t exactly the same as meeting other canines, this should give you a good idea of how your dog might do in the dog park. Most owners can handle this training easily enough at home, but for some, group classes under the supervision of a professional trainer might be the best way to start.
Now, I’m just as guilty as anyone else for not disciplining my dogs when they jump up to greet me, but if we want to properly socialize our dogs, then we need to change our own behavior first. Consistently discouraging the behavior of jumping on us is the best way for them to learn how to meet others. I realize this can be tough, as they’ve clearly missed you since you’ve been gone forever (in dog-time)!
Steps for Preparing Dogs for First Impressions
To prepare you and your furry friend for a new meet and greet, it helps to master a command or two. The most useful commands are: sit and stay. Offering them a command is much more effective than trying to stop them abruptly when they jump. Providing them with an alternative, positive behavior to exhibit, followed by a reward such as petting or a treat, will create a joyful environment for both of you. It simply takes consistency and a little patience to get there. Remember, even if you forget once a day and reward them for jumping, it can confuse them and undo or slow down your progress.
When you notice they are doing well with you, use visits from family and friends as an opportunity to practice the new skills. Ask the new person not to interact with the dog or give treats until the dog follows the sit/stay command. You can also introduce the leash during these visits to help the dog become comfortable with it before going on walks in public.
Practicing greetings with humans will give you a foundation to build on when you move to the next step of introducing them to friendly dogs you know, and eventually to new dogs.
