Adopting - Socializing

Question
We are considering adopting a 18 month old dane/mastiff mix.  I don't know his history, but I suspect he has not been socialized much.  Is it too late to socialize him?  We take our dogs everywhere.  I don't want a dog who will not be friendly when he meets new people.

Answer
It is never too late to begin socialization, however you do need to be more careful when you do this. An unsocial dog can get spooked and scared very easily if he is too overwhelmed and may snap or bite in fear. The best way to socialize a dog that does not have any previous socialization is to only take them out to places where you know you will have complete control. Make sure if you plan to let people come up to meet the dog you let them know ahead of time that he has not been socialized and they need to approach in a slow manner so that you can see the dogs reaction.

I would suggest that you do not immediately take him into a new environment right away, the dog needs to learn to trust you and your family first and foremost before taking him to public places. Give him two weeks to adjust to his new surroundings at home and them begin some out of home socialization.

You have to remember that if he has not been exposed to new people, he may not necessarily be friendly right away to strangers, this takes time,understanding and trust.

Good luck!