Pet owners are ignoring 'mandatory requirement' for a 'perfectly behaved dog'

When it comes to owning a dog, pet owners assume that they will have the perfect pooch by simply picking the right breed, giving them the right food, and teaching them how to behave indoors. However, despite widespread advice, many pet owners are overlooking a "mandatory requirement" for having a well-behaved furry friend.

Canine specialist Will Atherton, who goes by the name @iamwillatherton on TikTok, took to the popular social media app to call out dog owners who want a "perfect dog" but are not making the effort. Beginning his video, he shared: "If you want to have a perfectly behaved dog, this is the thing that too many people ignore and is absolutely a mandatory requirement to having the dream canine companion that you've always wanted."

What is the mandatory requirement?

Will went on to say: "As a canine specialist, I specialise in seeing dogs who have gone terribly wrong, and time and time again, one of the main causes of this going wrong is a dog that is not well socialised. You must socialise your dog.

"And what that doesn't mean is letting them free in any given situation to let them do what they want, when they want."

The canine expert stated that gradual exposure to different environmental stimuli is key, but this has to happen as your dog looks to you for guidance and direction.

"Use your heel, you'll sit and stay, and gradually expose them to new things they haven't seen before. Over time, nothing will faze them, and they'll always be glued to you, doing whatever it is you ask of them."

What is socialisation?

Dog socialisation means teaching your canine to feel at ease with other dogs, people, and new environments. By exposing them to different experiences, you help them learn how to adapt and respond calmly.

How to do it

The Dog's Trust has listed key steps in how to properly socialise your dog:

• Meet a variety of other dogs
• Observe other animals such as cats and horses
• Get your puppy used to being handled
• Introduce your puppy to all different types of people
• Prepare them for new sounds
• Introduce them to new environments and objects
• Help them to start spending time alone

When to start socialising your dog

For puppies, you should start socialising them as soon as they join your family, but at home, reported the Dog's Trust. Puppies should not walk in public until fully vaccinated and on an anti-parasite regimen, so speak to your vet about the right timing and treatments.

In the meantime, you can carry them outside in a sling or carrier to safely start socialisation before they explore on their own paws. However, it's never too late to socialise older dogs too.

According to Hounds Longue, "Whatever the circumstances, some dogs miss the ideal time frame for socialisation, which is seven weeks to four months. Some dogs learn a few lessons in socialisation, and they simply don't stick."

Signs of fear, anxiety and aggression around people or other animals is a major sign your adult dog may need to be socialised. Here are some steps on how to do it, according to the Hounds Lounge:

• Take your dog on walks to explore the sights, smells, and sounds
• Arrange calm, relaxed walks with another adult dog.
• Invite a friend over to help your dog meet a new adult human.
• Give your dog opportunities to interact with puppies and children.