Importance of socialising and training animals
Just like children, most animals go through a series of development stages on their way to becoming adults.
As they grow, it is also important for your pet to develop social skills. These skills help them to respond to a variety of social situations when they become adults.
Not only must pets such as cats and dogs learn how to act around their own species, but they also must learn how to interact with other animal species and also with humans.
Puppies
The most important socialisation period for puppies is between 4 and 16 weeks. As it becomes more aware of its surroundings, social relationships begin to develop.
During this period, pups need to be exposed to a variety of experiences, including interaction with adults, children, elderly people, and other animals.
Kittens
The development of kittens is much the same, except that their crucial socialisation period is between 2 and 8 weeks.
During this time they need to spend time interacting with humans and other animals if they are to develop into friendly adults.
Training dogs
All domestic dogs should be trained. Training is essential to ensure that dogs integrate well with society.
Training must begin as soon as a puppy is brought home. Puppies need to learn where they will eat, sleep and go to the toilet.
Puppies must also learn what behaviour is acceptable and appropriate. Owners should ensure that puppies learn to remain at home quietly and are always under control.
All dogs also need to learn to ‘sit’, ‘stay’, walk on a lead and come when they are called.
Not only does this make them more pleasant pets, but it is also important for your pet’s safety.
Training cats
Contrary to popular belief, cats can certainly be trained. The same principles apply as to dogs, although you have to be a very experienced trainer to get a cat to ‘sit’.
Cats are easy to toilet train and should come when they are called. Young cats should also be taught to mix with strangers, sit quietly in a carry cage, and if they have long hair, to be brushed.
Like humans, animals need interest and stimulation in their daily lives. If this is not provided, they can become bored and may show destructive behaviours.
Basic rules of training
- Repetition and consistency
- Encourage good behaviours and ignore or redirect inappropriate ones
- Your response must immediately follow the behaviour