
01/07/2025
The worst thing you can do with an unsocialised dog… is socialise them.”
Yes, you read that right. It sounds backwards, doesn’t it? But here’s the thing: dogs who haven’t been properly socialised aren’t “missing out” on playdates or puppy parties. What they’re missing is coping skills — and just throwing them into the deep end of dog classes or busy parks is a recipe for stress, not success.
🐶 Why? Because dogs sensitise far more easily than they desensitise.
That means one overwhelming experience can stick — and not in a good way. For unsocialised or fearful dogs, a dog training class ( no matter how calm), unfamiliar people, and lots of pressure can actually make things worse. You don’t build confidence with pressure.
🧠 What works better? Carefully structured, safe feeling environments.
That’s where well-designed online programmes shine. They let you work at your dog’s pace, from the comfort of home, without the pressure cooker of a live class. With the right support, you can build up your dog’s skills step by step — creating real social confidence, not just survival mode.
🎯 So if you’ve got a dog who’s a bit “socially awkward” — don’t worry. You don’t need to throw them into the deep end. You just need the right strategy. ❤️