How Dog’s Social Needs Develop
Hello and welcome back,
As we’re focussed on the subject of relationships this month, I thought it would be interesting today to discuss how a dog’s need for canine relationships can change over time.
It’s something that often goes unnoticed - their changing social and play needs as they age.
Just like humans, dogs undergo various developmental stages throughout their lives. These changes influence their behaviour, social preferences, and even their play habits. While we may have seen a young puppy being eager to engage in boisterous play with every dog they meet - not saying they should, but that’s a whole other email! - it's essential to understand that these preferences evolve over time.
Puppies thrive on social interaction and play as it allows them the opportunity to learn valuable skills such as bite inhibition, social cues, and communication with other dogs. However, as they mature into adolescence and adulthood, their play style often becomes more refined and selective.
As dogs age, their energy levels may also change, along with physical abilities if there’s any injury or stiffness. Their memory bank of social interactions will also impact how they choose to play or socialise in the future. Dogs who’ve been scared or injured by another dog may not want to be close to dogs in the same way through fear or anxiety.
Adult dogs often just become more selective about which dogs they want to interact with, preferring the company of dogs with similar energy levels and play styles. I liken it to us having a classroom full of ‘best friends’ when we’re a young child, a smaller group of friends when we’re in college, and then a closer network of friends in adulthood. Linda delved into our social circles last week - and the same sort of friendship groups could be used to depict a dog's own connections.
By staying mindful of our dog’s changing social needs we can adapt the interactions we encourage accordingly, allowing our dogs to get the most out of their walks. Just because they might become more selective when it comes to play and friendships, it doesn’t mean there isn’t a whole heap of fun to be had!
Until next time,
Caroline