What Is a Well Socialized Dog?

No one wants an unruly or aggressive dog around. Dogs without good manners are annoying at home and are unwelcome in public. Dogs that have been trained and exposed to other dogs and people have good social skills, their behavior is not problematic and they are welcome in public places.

House-Trained
- House training is the first social skill that should be taught a pet while it is still a young puppy. A well-socialized dog does not relieve itself in the house, in its crate or even in a yard unless it has been allowed to do so by its owner. An established routine with scheduled times and places for the dog to relieve itself is the quickest way to house-train a dog to socially accepted standards.
No Excessive Barking
- There is nothing more annoying than a dog that whines or barks excessively when it wants food or when someone comes to your home. Although barking alerts an owner of danger or strangers, a well-socialized dog listens when it is told to stop. If you are unable to stop your dog from barking or whining, there may be anxiety or fear issues you need to address to bring it in line.
No Jumping
- A well-socialized dog only approaches when signaled.
  
  Although you may like your dog to jump up to greet you or jump up on the sofa and climb on your lap while you watch TV, it may not be acceptable behavior to guests visiting your home. A well-socialized dog only approaches someone when signaled that it is all right to do so. When a dog does not jump up to greet or beg for food, it will be welcome at most public gatherings.
No Aggressive Behavior
- Reigning in aggressive and uncontrolled behavior is a key aspect in training a well-socialized dog, as it is necessary for the safety and well-being of other dogs and people. Dogs should be trained to sit when commanded and not chase, attack, dominate or display any threatening actions at home or in public. A well-socialized dog should be content to sit in the midst of people and other dogs without unruly or aggressive behavior.