Socialization is the process of getting your dog accustomed to various people, objects, animals and situations and provides the opportunity for your dog to familiarize himself with the world in a non-demanding situation. Many people make the mistake of trying to sooth their pet when it acts frightened. If your pet hides under a chair when the vacuum cleaner comes out and you verbally reassure him, he may interpret this as reward for his fearful behavior. On the other hand, if you laugh and giggle when he charges at it and attacks, you are also encouraging and rewarding aggressive behavior. Many pets become fearful or aggressive because their owners have unintentionally trained them to be that way.

Studies indicate that one in four dogs have a behavioral problem. It isn't so much a problem for the dog - heck, they could care less. No, the problem is that these behavioral issues affect the owner’s life and anyone else who spends time around the dog.

Socialization and habituation are important in nurturing a dog capable of confidently relating to people and animals. A puppy that is inadequately socialized or habituated may grow into a fearful adult. Fearful responses can develop even in the absence of unpleasant experiences. In essence, dogs must be alert to danger in order to survive. As a result, a dog’s instinctive response to anything unfamiliar is to treat it as if it is dangerous.

Unfortunately examples of animals that were inadequately socialized or habituated can be seen every day. Shelters often receive dogs that are labeled "abused" because the animal responds fearfully to certain people (men with beards is one common example). However, there is a possibility that the animal has not been abused. The animal may simply never have seen a man with a beard! Regardless: there is a higher risk of aggression in dogs that are not adequately and properly socialized. Conversely, dogs that receive daily socialization and habituation are less likely to be aggressive.

That said, the question remains: Why are so many puppies under-socialized and under-habituated? I'm afraid 'time' is the culprit. Our pets require A LOT of work, which necessitates a significant investment of time: time that our schedules often do not permit.

At the same time, socialization wears off. A pup that was properly socialized and then who is denied social opportunities for a long period of time (such as those long winter months!) will behave much as if they were not properly socialized or habituated. What this means is that your dog should be exposed and re-exposed to as many people, animals, things and situations as possible, in a controlled manner, throughout its life.