The most important work you can do with your puppy is temperament training, or teaching your dog to be relaxed and comfortable around people (also called socialization). Since the most critical window for socializing your pup began to close when she was just 12 weeks old, the sooner you get started handling your pup and exposing her to new situations, the better off you'll both be.
As an older pup, she may already be wary of or ill at ease in unfamiliar situations, so proceed slowly. (Her nervousness might be the result of mistreatment, or she may simply be under-socialized.) Use extra caution and be careful not to push her past her comfort level too drastically - all interactions should be positive.
Steps to raising a friendly dog
1. Get your pup used to being handled all over.
If she's not too big, settle your puppy in your lap, cradling her comfortably and securely on her back, like a baby. If she's too large for your lap, sit next to her on the floor and coax her to lie down on her side.
Gently touch and rub her head, tail, paws, tummy, and the area around her collar. If she seems sensitive about any of these spots, feed her a bit of kibble or a tasty treat at the same time.
2. Broaden your puppy's world.
Introduce her to at least four unfamiliar people every day - the mailman, friends, and even strangers you see on the streets. Ask them to touch her and rub her, and ask friends to hand feed her.
Take your puppy with you on errands.
Throw at least one puppy party to introduce her to your family and friends. This is an excellent way to do a lot of people-socialization at once.
Extra credit: For the ultimate handling exercise, dress your puppy in socks or a cute outfit. Once she learns to put up with this she'll be able to tolerate anything.
DogTime tip: Be sure your puppy meets men, women, and children of all shapes, sizes, and colors during this period. Puppies who aren't introduced to different kinds of people can become suspicious--particularly of men and children--as they grow older.
Veterinarian and animal behaviorist Dr. Ian Dunbar and his wife, dog trainer Kelly Dunbar, collaborate on DogStarDaily.com, OpenPaw.org, and DogTime, where they serve as contributing editors. They are dedicated to strengthening the bond between people and their dogs through training in order to keep dogs in their original homes and out of shelters.
Troubleshooting
If your puppy appears uncomfortable with any of these exercises, back off and make it easier. Take note of what seems to unsettle your pup and introduce her to fewer new people in shorter, more frequent bursts, until she becomes more at ease.
For extra-sensitive, shy pups begin an accelerated and intensive socialization program right away.
Hand feed all your pup's daily meals to her during socialization exercises and on fieldtrips. Whenever possible, have friends hand feed her, even just a piece of kibble or two.
Host several smaller gatherings in lieu of one big welcome party.
A puppy who is progressing socially should become limp and relaxed during handling exercises, back away from or let you take away a valued object such as a meaty bone or a coveted smelly sock, and eagerly approach all people in hopes of getting a friendly pat or ear scratch.
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Raising a friendly dog: 6-12 mos
