The amount of exercise you give your pet will vary depending on what type of pet it is. For example, a dog should get several walks every day to keep it healthy. Giving your dog plenty of exercise outside will help keep it calm and will minimize the chance of antisocial behavior. If you have a cat, make sure it has plenty of new toys available and that you are setting aside 10-15 minutes several times a day for play.
If you know you are going to have a very busy day, consider setting an alarm to remind you to let your pet outside to go to the bathroom.
Giving your pet the ability to leave a crowded room is very important for making it feel safe and secure. Forcing it to stay in an area where it will be uncomfortable basically guarantees antisocial behavior.
If you are having a large party, consider putting a note on your door or on your pet’s cage warning guests about your pet’s behavior. This will ensure that all guests know how to deal with your pet if they interact with it. If you intend to crate your pet while people are over, make the experience more positive by keeping a bowl of treats near the crate. If it suits your pet’s temperament, invite your guests to calmly give your pet a treat when they are in the crate. This will help positively reinforce the experience of guests coming over.
Give your pet a treat that is appropriate for its diet. Some pets are motivated enough by praise and petting that they don’t need a food treat to get the message that their behavior was good. It’s up to you to decide what will motivate your pet to keep up the good work.
Dogs should start being socialized when they are between 3 and 14 weeks old. [6] X Research source Cats should start socialization when they are between 3 and 9 weeks old. [7] X Research source
It’s a good idea to also give it a treat when you handle it, so that it learns that there are benefits to it letting you pick it up.
Choose public locations and venues that will allow your pet to see both men and women, people of various ages, and people with different ethnic backgrounds and nationalities. For example, take your pet to a children’s park so they can become more social with young children and their parents. Avoid exposing your young pet to situations that might frighten it. For example, taking a young puppy to a crowded dog park with many large, unleashed dogs may be overwhelming. Choose safe, controlled environments until your pet is secure enough to navigate high-energy situations.
It is important that you make these outings a positive experience for your pet. Make outings short if your pet is nervous, and give your pet a treat afterwards so that it will go away with a positive impression of the new environment it experienced.
Instruct your friends to squat or sit down in front of your pet when they meet for the first time. Your pet will view this position as a passive and relaxed stance, which can help your pet feel less threatened and more positive about meeting new people. Push your pet’s boundaries by getting your friends to dress up for a costume party. It doesn’t have to be Halloween! Invite them to wear unusual costumes, hats, and wild make-up. Have them play with your pet and give them treats throughout the party. This will help your pet stay calm around everyday garments and accessories.
Leave the door of the pet carrier open throughout the day so your pet can become accustomed to the carrier, or place treats inside the carrier to show your pet that the carrier is not a form of punishment.
To find a good trainer or obedience school in your area, talk to your veterinarian or your local animal rescue for suggestions. You can also ask friends and family if they have used any in your area. Choose an obedience school that focuses on positive-reinforcement training methods rather than deterrents, such as shock collars or choke chains.
A veterinarian may be able to help you with socialization issues that are not related to illness as well. They may have training tips and be able to prescribe medication for animals that have extremely bad behavior.
