Socialisation Secrets: How I Make Pawsome Friends
Ok…so we are talking about socialisation and I’ve got to tell you something… I LOVE making friends. New humans, new dogs, even that cat who pretends not to like me (but I know secretly does 😏). But here’s the thing: making healthy friendships isn’t just about wagging my tail at everyone I see. It takes practice, patience, and a little help from you.
Let me share my secrets to becoming the social butterfly (or should I say social paw-ffly)
- When I meet new friends, I feel more confident and braver.
- I learn good manners — like not jumping on every human I see (well… I’m still working on that).
- I feel less anxious when the world around me is loud, busy, or unfamiliar.
- Best of all? I get to share my waggy happiness with you too.
My Secrets to Making Friends??
- Start Small – Introduce me to one dog or one person at a time. Toss me into a huge dog park too soon, and I might panic — or hide behind your legs.
- Bribes Work (ahem, Treats Please 🍖) – If I behave well around a new friend, give me treats, praise, or belly rubs. I’ll learn fast: new friends = good vibes.
- Variety is the Spice of Life – Let me meet kids, adults, and seniors. Take me to parks, car rides, pet cafés — oh, and I wouldn’t mind a sniffari adventure too!
- Understand My Signals – This is super important, human. When I wag, bow, or bounce, I’m saying “Yay, let’s play!” But if I tuck my tail, pin my ears, yawn, or turn my head away, I’m telling you I’m nervous or overwhelmed. Please listen to me. Forcing me into situations when I’m not ready can make me scared instead of social and put others in danger too (I can have terrible mood swings!)
- Keep It Short & Sweet – Ten minutes of fun beats an hour of stress. End our social time on a waggy, happy note.
Mistakes Humans Make (But I Forgive You ❤️)
- Forcing me to say hi when I’m not ready
- Thinking “rough play” is always good play (sometimes it’s too much!)
- Letting me run wild without a leash in new places (not safe for me, you know…)
Socialisation isn’t about me loving everyone. It’s about me learning how to stay calm, polite, and happy no matter who I meet. With your guidance, I can build friendships that last a lifetime.
Because at the end of the day, when I’m wagging and smiling with my friends — I’m not just happy. I’m the best version of me.
