5 Reasons To Socialize Your Pup In Coffee Shops
You love your pet more than anything in the world. You want him or her to get socialized as soon as possible, and you think your local coffee shop might be the solution.
You aren’t wrong. There are plenty of reasons why a coffee shop is a great place to socialize your pet, including the five we’ve listed below.
Socialization Matters
Far too many pet owners brush away the idea of socializing their pet. Socialization, however, is incredibly important. Pets that are familiar with strangers and comfortable in new places are far less likely to bite someone unexpectedly. They are also less likely to be distracting by barking, jumping, or acting up. Try socializing your dog by walking with other dogs in the neighborhood. Setting up regular walks with other dog owners is easier when you live in a dog-friendly neighborhood, so if a move is on the horizon, consider the atmosphere of the neighborhood itself. The more time you put in, the more you’ll get out.
During the socialization process, your pet will pick up on social cues started by the people around him or her. You want these experiences to be positive, practical, and useful for the future. A well-trained dog is a good dog - and a good dog is more apt to come to the grocery store, your favorite coffee shop, or on vacation.
Convenience
There are quite a few conveniences associated with bringing your pup to a coffee shop for socialization. First of all, shops are often quiet. They serve food and drinks without the need for a waiter or waitress. The music is laid-back and the people are well-behaved. You don’t have to worry about your dog seeing anything negative or frustrating. It helps that coffee shops often have tall tables, where your dog can comfortably fit underneath you for safekeeping. If you want to socialize your dog by having him or her join you on a date, a coffee shop is the place to go. Consider how dogs, people, and their environment connect through Humane Dog Training.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere in a coffee shop is comfortable for both people and pets. Not only is the room and music quiet, but the smells are tantalizing and the patrons are kind. After all, who isn’t kind when getting their morning coffee? If you aren’t sure about the environment at your local coffee shop, considering searching for a pet-friendly coffee shop that makes your pup more comfortable. You don’t want to take any chances when it comes to socializing your best friend. These moments will matter for the rest of his or her life - particularly if you start young. Learn about training a puppy through the American Kennel Club.
Walking Distance
In small towns (and big cities), coffee shops are often located directly downtown - within walking distance for a number of homes and apartments in the area. If you live in one of these homes, you can bring your pet to the coffee shop for socialization without even needing to step into a vehicle. The experience will start the moment you walk out the door and end the minute you step back inside. This is not only convenient, but essential for your pet. The socialization process goes uninterrupted.
Treats
Some coffee shops offer water bottles, dishes, treats, or toys for pups that come to visit. If your pet engages with these items, he or she will get to know the employees within the coffee shop. This will help with socialization. Why? Because your pet will know more familiar faces each time you visit. The mix of familiarity and new will keep your pup calm and prepared as time goes on. It may also help to have employees that can watch your dog if you need to run to the bathroom or clean up a mess.
Looking for more information about socialization? Visit Cesar’s Way or Nylabone for tips.
You should keep in mind that not all coffee shops accept pets. You’ll need to call around to find the right establishment for you. But, once you do, your dog will thank you for a socialization experience that can’t be matched.
