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| The Importance of Continual Socialization Above all, our Canaan Dogs are our companions. They are expected to be good neighbours at home, and good travelers when we are on the road. We feel that the socialization process is a lifetime endeavour. The more people they meet, the more dogs that they get to know, and the more places that they go to can only help ease the stress when a new situation arises. Our dogs have a natural curiousity to new people and dogs, but they generally settle into the routine very quickly. They love children and both understand that they have to be gentle. The same recognition occurs when they meet an older person. We find this interesting, especially after reading about Dr. Menzel's efforts to train Canaans as seeing eye dogs. The best results came when they were paired with children or the elderly. While Cybelle shows her enthusiam with meeting larger dogs, Macc has always had a soft spot for smaller dogs, in particular small, white dogs. No matter what they do he seems to have an inexhaustable supply of patience. We have speculated that this is an extension of his herding stock sense where he is calm and patient with the lambs. Limiting the stress on their systems should be a health benefit. Having dogs that are continually nervous and shy in public would decrease the enjoyment we receive when we go out with them. Happy and confident dogs are a joy to be around and to show off! Socialization Tips - A must read! |
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