Is Your Dog Overexposed or Under Engaged?

We all want what’s best for our dogs. But sometimes it’s hard to tell if we’re giving them too much attention or not enough. After all, they’re always happy to see us, no matter what we do (or don’t do). Here’s a quick quiz to help you figure out if your dog is getting the right amount of socialization.

1. How often do you take your dog for walks?
   A. Once a day, at a minimum
   B. A couple times a week, when I have time
   C. Whenever I feel like it
   D. Never, my dog gets all the exercise he needs in the backyard
2. How often do you have people over?
   A. Once a month
   B. A couple times a week
   C. Whenever I feel like it
   D. Never, I prefer to keep my social life and my home life separate
3. How often does your dog meet new people?
   A. Every day
   B. A couple times a week
   C. Whenever I feel like it
   D. Never, my dog is shy around strangers
4. How often does your dog go to events like the dog park or doggy daycare?
   A. Every day
   B. A couple times a week
   C. Whenever I feel like it
   D. Never, I don’t think those places are very clean/safe/fun/etc.
5. How much time do you spend interacting with your dog on a daily basis?
   A. 30 minutes or more
   B. 15-30 minutes
   C. 5-15 minutes
   D. Less than 5 minutes, I’m too busy for that!

If you answered…

Mostly As: Your dog is overexposed! You might be smothering your poor pooch with too much attention and not giving him the chance to be independent and explore the world on his own terms. Try easing up on the leash a bit and giving him some space to sniff around and meet new friends on his own four legs.

Mostly Bs: Your dog is just right! You’re giving him the perfect balance of socialization and alone time to explore his surroundings and learn about the world around him at his own pace. Keep up the good work!

Mostly Cs: Your dog could use some more socialization. It’s important to give him opportunities to meet new people and dogs so he can learn how to behave appropriately in different situations. Try taking him for more walks, adding some additional playdates into your weekly routine, or enrolling him in a local doggie daycare.

Mostly Ds: Your Dog is Under Engaged! Dogs are social creatures by nature and need regular opportunities to interact with their pack. Without enough socialization, dogs can become anxious, stressed, and even aggressive. Make sure you’re giving your furry friend plenty of chances to get out there and meet new people and dogs on a regular basis!