For Dogs
Socialization with humans is an important part of ensuring your dog behaves around people, but what about other dogs?
Knowing how to conduct themselves around other dogs is an important part of making sure they are good canine citizens, but getting that “practice” in can be very challenging in single-dog households.
Are Dog Parks Good for Socializing Dogs?
Dog parks are often chaotic and rely on other owners - who may or may not be paying attention - to manage their own dogs for safety. A nervous dog or an overeager pup that hasn’t yet learned how to “play nice” can lead to behavioral issues and potentially even a fight!
Additionally, the fact that dog parks are open to virtually anyone is an admirable goal but one that can have more drawbacks than benefits. Dog parks have no vetting for fleas, up-to-date shots, or individual temperaments, after all.
Rather than a fleeting moment of sniffing while running around with a long list of unknowns, socialization in a controlled environment is a much safer option. A doggy daycare stay can help your pup learn to relax and enjoy the company of other pups in a safe, clean environment. 
Are Dog Walkers Good for Socializing Dogs?
Your dog needs regular exercise to feel good, as well as to “use the potty” on a regular basis when nature calls. While there are likely some dog walking services in your area, these aren’t the best way to get your dog used to other dogs. Even when walked in a group, dogs tend to compete to mark territory in a relatively small span of movement area, which can lead to squabbles.
Think of it this way - consider your preferences while socializing at a party. Would you rather mingle in a large ballroom with room to come and go as you please, or do so while packed shoulder-to-shoulder beside 4 or 5 other people in a narrow hallway, waiting to use the bathroom?
Dog walking is more about a single function - letting your dog go potty - than helping them evolve behaviorally. Choosing a daycare option for dogs instead gives them the opportunity to get valuable exercise and true, organic interaction with other dogs in a much larger space.
What Are the Benefits of a Doggy Daycare?
- Socialization: One of the most important benefits of using a daycare facility for your dog is socialization. Not only will they be able to interact with other dogs in general, but they’ll also get to meet different breeds, sizes, and ages throughout their stays. The dedicated staff ensures that rambunctious puppies don’t hassle older or smaller dogs so everyone can stay safe and have fun. It allows an “only dog” to get used to the smells, sights, and sounds of other dogs gradually and carefully rather than the “feet first” approach of a park.
- Supervision: You can feel free to run errands, go to appointments, or work a full day without your dog feeling lonely or anxious. At a dog daycare facility, you won’t have to worry about coming home to accidents, a torn-up couch, or an upended garbage can. Your dog won’t have a chance to get up to mischief because they’ll be carefully supervised throughout their stay.
- Security: Doggy daycare facilities are built specifically for dogs, and that means gates and doors that even the most mischievous pup can’t escape from. For any dog owner that’s had to frantically search the neighborhood because of an errant gate latch, that offers significant peace of mind. In the event of inclement weather, your dog won’t have to “hold it” or stay outside in the soaking rain, either - they’re escorted in and out, or brought to a specific indoor potty area, so they can do their business while staying dry and comfortable.
- Health: Happiness for dogs is just as important as happiness is for humans. When they get to enjoy frequent socializing, interaction, and attention, they can expend the energy they need to get exercise during the day and sleep soundly through the night.
Related Read: Is Your Mischievous Pooch A Bad Dog Or Just Restless? - A Watchful Eye: You love your dog, and it’s only natural that you miss them when you’re apart, even if you absolutely need to be at the office. Many doggy daycare facilities offer the opportunity to take a live peek at the facility grounds or your dog’s individual kennel to see how they’re enjoying their day. While you may be counting the hours until you’re back with your furry friend, a video feed of them happily romping around with new canine pals is sure to make you smile in the meantime.
Starting with a Doggy Daycare
If you’re ready to start socializing your dog in a safe, controlled environment, the next step is getting him or her enrolled at your local canine daycare provider. You’ll likely need your dog’s vaccination and vet information handy, and you should also be prepared to bring them in for a supervised visit at least once before leaving them for the day. If you have any questions or concerns about the onboarding process for your daycare of choice, be sure to ask: the canine experts behind the counter will be happy to help both you and your canine companion acclimate to this fun new experience.
Whether you are going to work, running errands, or having work done on your home, doggy daycare is a great way to ensure that your pets get the love and attention they need while you're away. Central Pet has doggy daycare in Tucson, AZ. Along with sending your pet to one of our facilities while you’re at work or busy, there are a lot of add-on services that can make your special friend's day even better.
