SOCIALIZING AND TRAINING

These subjects are vast and there are many books available for your reference.  I will be happy to advise you or point you in the  right direction for answers.  Most problems can be solved if they are handled before they have a chance to become habit.

SOCIALIZING

Socializing is the most important step in the development of a well-rounded dog.  Provide many special experiences for your dog  throughout his /her life.  These will equip him/her to handle most situations.  Dogs who are confined to home and yard will  develop into dogs that cannot cope outside their environment.   Remember that everything is new to your puppy and it takes  socialization for him/her to sort out good from bad and right from wrong.  Experiences during the first months of his/her  life will be with them forever.  Negative experiences if not dealt with properly, may result in a full-grown dog that will be in  the worst situation, child or dog aggressive.   Most aggression is founded in fear and frustration.  Bouviers are naturally  protective.  This behavior should be guided and never encouraged to excess.  A good book to read is  “How to Raise a Puppy You Can  Live With”.  It has many tips on fear periods and socialization.

LEASH TRAINING

Leash training can begin at any time.  It is a fairly simple task, but must be done slowly and gently.  Begin by allowing the  puppy to roam with the leash attached to his/her collar.  Then hold the leash and tempt the puppy with a treat to walk to you.   From this point, you are on your way!  Never leave a choke collar on any animal when off lead.  Choke collars can get caught and  strangle a dog.  If you would like to leave a permanent collar on your Bouvier, choose rolled leather that will not mat the fur.    Measuring the neck and adding two inches can give you a proper fit.

TABLE TRAINING

Table training is a must whether you plan to show your dog or not.  Grooming is so much a part of a Bouvier’s life that it is  essential to develop good habits.  Train your dog to stand quietly for brushing and combing.  Never leave a dog unattended on a  grooming table for a moment, SERIOUS injury can occur if he/her should jump or fall.