02/28/2025
The Socialization Myth: Are We Forcing Our Dogs to Fail?
Society has made a drastic shift in how we expect our dogs to behave. Once valued and bred via genetic selection for their working abilities, independence, and loyalty to their family units, today’s pet dogs are increasingly pressured to be overly social, to a degree they were never bred for. From dog parks to daycare centers, playgroups to leashed greetings, the modern dog is constantly placed in situations where forced socialization is the norm. But at what cost?
The Illusion of Social Success
Many owners mistake initial excitement for friendliness. A wagging tail, bouncy movements, and curiosity might seem like signs of a happy, well-socialized dog. But underneath, there’s often an internal conflict brewing—fear, uncertainty, and overstimulation. Just like people, dogs can experience excitement and fear at the same time. When those conflicting emotions reach a tipping point, the response can be instinctive and defensive—growling, snapping, lunging, or worse.
Fortunately, dogs and their owners who have been professionally trained are equipped to handle these scenarios. They have invested in their dogs’ education, ensuring they can navigate interactions appropriately and avoid unnecessary conflict. The real danger lies in those who don’t—owners who allow their dogs to invade the space of others without understanding body language, boundaries, or proper public etiquette. These situations create high-risk encounters, leading to fights and injuries that could have been prevented with education and awareness.
The Consequences of Forced Interaction
Dog fights happen in a matter of seconds, and they can be devastating—not only for the dogs but also for the people trying to break them up. Many well-meaning pet owners lack the experience or reflexes to prevent or de-escalate conflict. Worse yet, a single bad interaction can shape a dog’s behavior for life, making them more fearful or defensive in future encounters.
And what happens when dog-related incidents rise? Restrictions follow.
• More breed bans
• More leash laws
• More areas where dogs are no longer welcome
If we continue down this path—forcing dogs into uncomfortable social situations without respecting their natural instincts—we may find ourselves with fewer freedoms as dog owners.
A Call for Change: Respect Over Expectation
So how do we stop this trend? How do we shift our expectations before it’s too late?
1. Respect Personal Space – Just as we wouldn’t force a stranger into an unwanted hug, we shouldn’t assume every dog wants to interact with others. A dog ignoring another dog is not “anti-social”—it’s natural.
2. Ditch the “All Dogs Must Play” Mentality – Some dogs enjoy canine companionship, but many prefer to stick with their own humans. That’s okay.
3. Listen to What Your Dog is Telling You – If your dog is uncomfortable, allow them the space to disengage. Learn body language from an experienced professional dog trainer.
4. Advocate for Responsible Breeding – Breeders should consider temperament and adaptability when producing future generations, especially given the unrealistic social demands society now places on dogs.
The Future of Dog Ownership
If we don’t start bending our expectations, there will be a breaking point. Whether it’s through stricter laws, increased liability, or a rise in behavioral issues, the signs are already there.
The question is: Will we listen?
✨Holistic Dog Behaviorists, Julie Forbes & Darcie Boltz. Sensitive Dog's mind-body-spirit approach is refreshing and effective.
