Managing Socialization Setbacks in Your Shih Poo
Introduction: Understanding Socialization Setbacks
Socialization is a crucial aspect of every dog’s life as it helps them develop social skills and build confidence to interact with people, other pets, and new environments. It is especially important for Shih Poos as they are a crossbreed of two social and affectionate breeds- the Shih Tzu and the Poodle. However, despite their friendly nature, many Shih Poos may experience socialization setbacks at some point in their lives. These setbacks can range from mild nervousness to fearful or aggressive behavior. As a Shih Poo owner, it is important to understand the common socialization setbacks, their causes, and how to deal with them.
The following sections will discuss the most common socialization setbacks in Shih Poos, their underlying causes, and how you can help your furry friend overcome them. Additionally, we will discuss preventative measures to ensure that your pet continues to develop social skills and lead a happy and healthy life. So, if you want to learn more about dealing with socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo, read on! And don’t forget to check our Shih Poo socializing tips for more practical advice on how to train and socialize your dog.
Common Socialization Setbacks in Shih Poos:
As much as we love our Shih Poos, we can’t deny that they can face socialization setbacks that make it difficult for them to interact with people and other pets. The way your Shih Poo behaves can vary from one pup to another, but some of the most common setbacks include fear of strangers, anxiety in new environments, and aggressive behavior. These behaviors can be alarming for both pet owners and those engaging with the dogs. Understanding these setbacks is essential for finding ways to help your Shih Poo overcome them. You can learn more about these challenges by visiting our page on early socialization and how to teach your Shih Poo to handle a new environment.
Fear of Strangers
Socializing a Shih Poo can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s not always easy. One common socialization setback that pet owners may face is their Shih Poo’s fear of strangers.
Signs of fear of strangers in Shih Poos
If your Shih Poo is scared of strangers, you may notice the following signs: trembling, barking, growling, hiding, or avoiding people. Socialization is crucial for a Shih Poo because their small size and adorable appearance might attract strangers. Without proper socialization, Shih Poos might become timid, anxious, or aggressive towards people outside their family unit.
Causes of fear of strangers in Shih Poos
Fear of strangers in Shih Poos can occur due to a variety of reasons. Listed below are the top three reasons that can cause fear of strangers in Shih Poos:
- Lack of Early Socialization: If a Shih Poo does not have ample exposure to different people and environments during their puppyhood, they may become fearful of unfamiliar faces or places.
- Traumatic Experiences: A Shih Poo may develop fear of strangers if they had a traumatic experience with a stranger, like being grabbed, chased or abused by a stranger.
- Personality: Shih Poos may be cautious by nature, making them predisposed to fear of strangers.
How to help a Shih Poo overcome fear of strangers
If your Shih Poo is scared of strangers, there are steps you can take to help them overcome their fear. Here are some ways:
- Positive Reinforcement: One of the effective ways to help your Shih Poo overcome their fear of strangers is positive reinforcement. Reward your dog for remaining calm around strangers. Gradually increase your Shih Poo’s exposure to strangers so that they can get used to it.
- Gradual Exposure: Instead of throwing your Shih Poo into the deep end, slowly expose them to strangers. Start by introducing them to people that they’re familiar with before moving on to meeting new people. Keep the environment as calm and peaceful as possible.
- Building Trust and Confidence: Bonding with your Shih Poo through play and exercise can help build their confidence and trust. It’s also helpful to teach them basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”
- Professional Help: If your Shih Poo’s fear of strangers is severe, consider seeking professional help from a dog behaviorist. They can assist your Shih Poo in overcoming their fear and suggest a suitable training program.
Remember, socialization is key to a happy and healthy Shih Poo. By taking the right steps and being patient, you can help your furry friend overcome their fear of strangers and enjoy a well-adjusted life.
Anxiety in New Environments
It’s not unusual for Shih Poos to feel anxious in new environments. This is a common socialization setback that can significantly impact their overall well-being. When in unfamiliar places or surroundings, Shih Poos may experience a range of emotions, from fear to excitement. However, some dogs may feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or even scared. Here are some things you should know about anxiety in new environments and how to deal with it.
| Signs of anxiety in new environments: | What to do: |
|---|---|
| Panting excessively or drooling | Offer plenty of water and take frequent breaks so your Shih Poo can relax and cool off. Bring a portable water bowl and fresh water whenever you go out with your dog. |
| Trembling, shaking or hiding behind objects | Move a little further away from the trigger inducing the anxiety until your dog feels comfortable. Use treats and praise to reward your Shih Poo for brave behavior. |
| Barking or growling at strangers or other dogs | Keep your dog on a leash and maintain a safe distance. Offer positive reinforcement training to encourage good behavior. |
| Refusing to eat or drink | Try offering your dog high-value treats or food. Don’t force feed or overfeed your dog as this can worsen the situation. |
It’s important to understand that anxiety in new environments may be caused by several factors, including lack of exposure, past negative experiences, or stress. Some Shih Poos may also be genetically predisposed to anxiety, making it more common or severe.
To help your Shih Poo overcome anxiety in new environments, you can use a range of techniques, such as positive reinforcement and gradual exposure to triggers. It may take time and patience, but with the right approach, you can help your furry friend feel more confident and relaxed.
Remember that every dog is unique, and what works for one may not for another. If your Shih Poo’s anxiety is severe or persistent, you may want to consider seeking professional help from a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist. By identifying the underlying cause and providing appropriate treatment, you can help your dog overcome socialization setbacks and lead a happy, healthy life.
Aggressive Behavior
Shih Poos are typically known for their friendly and outgoing demeanor. However, it’s not uncommon for them to display aggressive behavior, which can be concerning for their owners. This type of behavior can often be a result of socialization setbacks, which may manifest as fear or anxiety in certain situations or towards certain people or pets.
Understanding the underlying causes of aggressive behavior in Shih Poos is important in effectively addressing and managing it. Here are some possible causes:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Trauma | If a Shih Poo has experienced a traumatic event in the past, such as an attack from another dog or abuse from a previous owner, it could lead to aggressive behavior. |
| Health Issues | Underlying health issues, such as pain or discomfort, can cause a normally friendly Shih Poo to display aggression as a defensive response. |
| Lack of Training | If a Shih Poo has not received proper training from an early age, it may not know how to behave in certain situations, leading to fear and aggression. |
Dealing with aggressive behavior in a Shih Poo requires patience, consistency and understanding. Failing to address this type of behavior can lead to further socialization setbacks and can even become a dangerous situation.
It is essential to seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to address the root cause of the aggression. Positive reinforcement training is generally recommended as an effective way to modify a Shih Poo’s behavior. Gradual exposure to the trigger situations, building trust and confidence and appropriate exercise and play can help your Shih Poo overcome aggressive behavior.
Preventing aggressive behavior in Shih Poos requires consistent socialization with other people and pets, as well as addressing any health issues to minimize pain or discomfort. Frequent positive reinforcement training sessions can also help prevent aggressive behavior from developing.
Remember, aggressive behavior in Shih Poos is not something that should be ignored. It is critical to address it promptly and effectively to ensure a safe and happy life for both the dog and their owners.
Causes of Socialization Setbacks in Shih Poos:
As much as we adore our Shih Poos, socialization setbacks can be a frustrating reality to deal with. There are various reasons as to why your furry companion may struggle with socialization. Understanding these reasons could help you address the issue more effectively. Let’s explore some potential causes of socialization setbacks in Shih Poos.
Lack of Early Socialization
One of the causes of socialization setbacks in Shih Poos is the lack of early socialization. This occurs when a puppy is not exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period, which is typically between 3 to 12 weeks of age.
Without proper socialization, a Shih Poo may become fearful, anxious or aggressive in new situations, and around unfamiliar people and pets. They could be overwhelmed by new sensations and experiences, which can lead to negative reactions such as growling or biting.
To address this issue, pet owners should understand the importance of early socialization and expose their Shih Poo puppies to different people, animals, and environments. This can include visits to parks, pet stores, and engaging in puppy playdates with other dogs.
Additionally, pet owners should:
- Create positive experiences by rewarding good behavior with treats and praise.
- Allow puppies to explore their surroundings at their own pace and avoid over-stimulating them.
- Introduce puppies to novel experiences, sights, and sounds gradually.
- Start obedience training early and in a positive way.
- Seek guidance from a professional dog trainer if they are uncertain how to socialize their puppy properly.
Remember, lack of early socialization can create long-lasting problems for Shih Poo’s socialization skills. Investing in adequate socialization during the critical period of development is vital.
Traumatic Experiences
Trauma can have a lasting impact on any dog, but it can be especially difficult for Shih Poos to overcome due to their sensitive nature. Traumatic experiences can include anything from physical abuse to a scary encounter with another dog. These experiences can cause Shih Poos to develop deep-seated fears and phobias that may lead to socialization setbacks.
It’s important to recognize signs of trauma in your Shih Poo so you can help them overcome their experiences. Some signs to watch out for include avoidance of certain people or situations, frequent shaking or trembling, excessive barking or growling, and unusual hiding or cowering behavior.
If you suspect that your Shih Poo has had a traumatic experience, it is important to address it as soon as possible. This can be done through positive reinforcement training that helps to rebuild trust and confidence in your Shih Poo. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your training, and to avoid any situations that may cause your dog to become fearful or anxious.
One helpful method for addressing traumatic experiences is gradual exposure therapy. This involves slowly introducing your Shih Poo to the situation or trigger that caused the trauma, in a controlled and safe environment. With patience and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to associate the trigger with positive experiences instead of negative ones.
In some cases, however, professional help may be necessary to help your Shih Poo overcome their traumatic experiences. A licensed dog behaviorist can work with you and your dog to develop a tailored plan that meets their specific needs and helps them overcome their fears and anxieties.
By addressing traumatic experiences in your Shih Poo, you can help them overcome their socialization setbacks and develop a more confident and well-adjusted personality. It’s important to be patient, consistent, and proactive, and to always prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being.
| Signs of Trauma in Shih Poos: |
|---|
| Avoidance of certain people or situations |
| Frequent shaking or trembling |
| Excessive barking or growling |
| Unusual hiding or cowering behavior |
Health Issues
Shih Poos, like any other breed of dog, may face socialization setbacks due to various health issues. These issues can hinder their ability to interact with others and may result in unwarranted behavior. Here are some common health problems that can cause socialization setbacks in Shih Poos:
- Chronic Pain: Dogs experiencing chronic pain may become irritable, anxious, or aggressive. This frequently leads to a lack of interest in socializing and difficulty getting along with other dogs or humans.
- Hearing or Vision Loss: Shih Poos may experience hearing or vision loss as they grow older. This negatively impacts their ability to respond to social cues from other dogs or people, leading to fear or anxiety.
- Food Allergies: Dogs with food allergies may develop skin irritation, digestive issues, and other symptoms that cause them to feel uncomfortable or sick. These symptoms can make socializing difficult for them as they may feel distracted or unwilling to socialize.
- Anxiety and Depression: Just like humans, dogs can also experience anxiety and depression. With these mental health problems, Shih Poos may feel overwhelmed and uneasy in social situations, leading to aggressive or passive behavior.
It is imperative to take notice of your Shih Poo’s health and seek medical attention when necessary. Addressing their health challenges may increase their comfort level in social situations, and enhance their confidence around other dogs and humans.
How to Deal with Socialization Setbacks:
Dealing with socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo can be a challenging and confusing task for any pet owner. It may leave you feeling perplexed and at a loss for how to help your furry friend overcome their fears and anxiety. However, there are several effective strategies that you can implement to help your Shih Poo get back on track to being a confident and socialized pet. Below are some impactful ways that you can help your Shih Poo overcome socialization setbacks and regain their positive outlook on the world.
Positive Reinforcement Training
One effective way to deal with socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo is through positive reinforcement training. This type of training focuses on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in positive reinforcement training:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Identify desired behavior: Make a list of behaviors you want to encourage in your Shih Poo, such as approaching strangers without fear or playing nicely with other dogs. |
| 2 | Choose a reward: Find a treat or toy that your Shih Poo really enjoys and will work for. |
| 3 | Reinforce the behavior: When your Shih Poo exhibits the desired behavior, immediately give them the reward and praise them. This reinforces the behavior and makes it more likely to be repeated in the future. |
| 4 | Be consistent: Consistency is key in positive reinforcement training. Reward the behavior every time it happens, and don’t accidentally reinforce bad behavior by giving in to your Shih Poo’s demands. |
Positive reinforcement training can be effective in helping your Shih Poo overcome socialization setbacks. By focusing on building up positive behaviors, you can help your pup gain confidence and overcome their fears.
Gradual Exposure to Triggers
One effective way to help your Shih Poo deal with socialization setbacks is to gradually expose them to the triggers that cause their fear, anxiety, or aggressive behavior. This method is called systematic desensitization and involves exposing your pet to their triggers in a controlled and safe environment while rewarding calm and positive behavior.
The table below shows an example of how to gradually expose a Shih Poo to strangers:
| Level of Exposure | Description | Reinforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Show your Shih Poo a picture of a stranger from a distance while playing with them. | Treats and praise for staying calm and curious. |
| Level 2 | Have a friend walk outside your house while your Shih Poo is inside, and reward them for quiet and relaxed behavior. | Treats and verbal encouragement for good behavior. |
| Level 3 | Sit on a bench in a park with your Shih Poo on a leash and watch people from a distance, and reward them for not barking or lunging. | Treats, petting, and play for calm and friendly behavior. |
| Level 4 | Approach a stranger from behind with your Shih Poo on a leash and reward them for sniffing or greeting without growling or biting. | Treats, verbal praise, and a short walk for meeting a new person. |
| Level 5 | Allow a stranger to pet your Shih Poo if they show no signs of fear or aggression, and reward them for being friendly and trusting. | Treats, attention, and playtime for positive social interaction. |
It’s important to note that the progression of the exposure levels may vary depending on your Shih Poo’s response and progress. It’s also essential to avoid over-stimulating or overwhelming them with too much exposure too soon. Gradual exposure helps to build trust and confidence in your pet, and repetitive positive experiences help to rewire their brain’s response to the triggers. Through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training, your Shih Poo can learn to face their fears and overcome their socialization setbacks.
Building Trust and Confidence
One of the most effective ways to help your Shih Poo overcome socialization setbacks is by building trust and confidence in them. This requires patience and consistency on your part. Here are some tips to help you with this process:
- Spend quality time with your Shih Poo: Make time to bond with your furry friend. Play games, go for walks, and give them plenty of attention. This will help your Shih Poo understand that you are a trusted and reliable companion.
- Address any past traumas: If your Shih Poo has had a traumatic experience in their past, they may be more hesitant to trust people or other animals. It’s essential to address and work through any issues they may have before progressing with socialization attempts.
- Provide a safe environment: Ensure that your Shih Poo feels safe and comfortable in their surroundings. This could mean creating a designated safe space at home or choosing a quiet location for socialization attempts.
- Avoid forcing interactions: Pushing your Shih Poo out of their comfort zone will only make them more anxious and untrusting. Allow them to approach new people or animals on their terms and take things at their own pace.
- Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise can help to build trust and confidence in your Shih Poo. When they exhibit desired behavior, be sure to reward them for it.
- Seek professional help: If your Shih Poo’s socialization setbacks are severe, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They will be able to provide you with a customized plan to address your Shih Poo’s specific needs.
Remember, building trust and confidence takes time and consistent effort, but the results are well worth it. Be patient with your Shih Poo and celebrate every small victory.
Professional Help
Dealing with socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo can be a challenging process, especially if your furry companion is exhibiting severe or persistent behavior issues. In some cases, professional help may be necessary to address these setbacks effectively.
Here are some types of professional help that can be beneficial:
- Behaviorist: A behaviorist is a certified professional who can help you identify and address behavioral issues in your Shih Poo. They will typically conduct a thorough assessment of your dog’s behavior and develop a personalized training plan to help your dog overcome their specific socialization setbacks. Behaviorists can also provide ongoing support as your Shih Poo progresses through their training.
- Trainer: A professional dog trainer can help you teach your Shih Poo basic obedience commands and socialization techniques. They may also offer group classes, which can provide a valuable opportunity for your dog to socialize with other dogs and people in a safe and controlled environment.
- Veterinarian: A vet can help identify if there are any underlying health issues contributing to your Shih Poo’s socialization setbacks. They can also provide guidance on managing any medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s behavior issues.
- Medications: In some cases, medication may be necessary to help manage your Shih Poo’s anxiety or aggression. Your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can prescribe medication that can help your dog feel calmer and more relaxed in certain situations.
It is important to note that even with professional help, addressing your Shih Poo’s socialization setbacks takes time and patience. You will likely need to continue training and working with your dog on a consistent basis to see lasting results. However, with professional help and a commitment to positive reinforcement training, your Shih Poo can develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a variety of social situations.
Preventing Socialization Setbacks:
As a Shih Poo owner, you undoubtedly want to provide your furry companion with the best possible life. Part of that involves ensuring that they grow up to be well-adjusted, friendly, and outgoing. While dealing with socialization setbacks can be challenging, the good news is that you can take several steps to prevent them from happening in the first place. By being proactive, you can set your Shih Poo up for a lifetime of positive social interactions and experiences. Let’s explore some practical strategies for preventing socialization setbacks in your furry friend.
Early and Ongoing Socialization
Socialization is a critical stage in a Shih Poo’s life for developing appropriate social behavior. Early and ongoing socialization helps prevent socialization setbacks from occurring in the first place. This involves exposing your Shih Poo to different people, animals, and environments to ensure they are comfortable in a variety of situations.
Table: How to Ensure Early and Ongoing Socialization
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduce Early | Introduce your Shih Poo to people, other dogs, and different environments as early as possible. This will help them get used to new experiences and reduce the likelihood of fear or anxiety later on. |
| Reward Good Behavior | Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or toys, to reward good behavior when your Shih Poo interacts with new people or animals. This will help them associate new experiences with positive outcomes. |
| Expose Gradually | Gradually expose your Shih Poo to new experiences, starting with less scary situations and gradually increasing the level of exposure. This will help them build confidence and reduce their fear or anxiety. |
| Practice Consistently | Make socialization a consistent part of your Shih Poo’s routine to help them build social skills and confidence. Regular playdates and walks in different environments can be a great way to practice socialization. |
Socialization is an ongoing process, and it’s important to continue exposing your Shih Poo to new experiences throughout their life. This will help them stay comfortable in a variety of situations and prevent socialization setbacks from occurring later on.
In addition to early and ongoing socialization, it’s important to provide your Shih Poo with proper health care and positive interactions with people and other pets. By taking a proactive approach to your Shih Poo’s socialization, you can help prevent socialization setbacks and ensure they develop into a happy and well-adjusted dog.
Proper Health Care
Taking proper care of your Shih Poo’s health is an essential aspect of helping them overcome socialization setbacks. Here are some important steps you can take to keep your furry companion healthy and happy:
- Regular Check-Ups: It’s crucial to take your Shih Poo to the vet for regular check-ups. This will help to catch any health issues early on and ensure that your pup is up-to-date on their vaccinations. A healthy pup is more likely to feel confident in new situations and settings.
- Nutritious Diet: Providing your Shih Poo with a nutritious and balanced diet is vital for their overall health and well-being. Make sure to feed them high-quality food that is appropriate for their age and size. A healthy diet can help to boost their immune system and increase energy levels.
- Exercise and Playtime: Physical activity is essential for dogs of all ages and breeds, including Shih Poos. Make sure your pup gets enough exercise and playtime to keep them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, both of which can contribute to socialization setbacks.
- Dental Care: Proper dental care is critical for your Shih Poo’s overall health. Regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings can prevent dental problems such as gum disease, which can cause pain and discomfort. Healthy teeth and gums can also help your pup feel more comfortable and confident in social settings.
By taking these steps and providing your Shih Poo with the utmost care, you’re not only ensuring their physical health but also their emotional well-being. A healthy and happy pup is more likely to adapt and thrive in new social situations, making it easier to overcome socialization setbacks.
Positive Interactions with People and Pets
One of the most effective ways to prevent socialization setbacks in Shih Poos is to encourage positive interactions with people and pets. This not only helps to build social skills but also provides mental and physical stimulation.
Here are some ways to promote positive interactions:
- Expose your Shih Poo to different types of people: Introduce your Shih Poo to people of different ages, genders, and races. This will help your pup become more comfortable around diverse groups of people and prevent fear of strangers.
- Encourage friendly exchanges: Encourage people to approach your Shih Poo in a friendly, non-threatening manner. Teach them to approach slowly and offer treats or toys as a way to build trust and form positive associations.
- Socialize with other friendly pets: If possible, expose your Shih Poo to other pets that are friendly and social. This will help your pup learn how to interact with other animals and prevent aggressive behavior.
- Supervise playtime: Always supervise playtime with other pets and children to ensure that everyone is safe and having a positive experience. If you notice any signs of discomfort or fear, intervene and redirect your pup’s attention to something positive.
- Positively reinforce good behavior: Reward your Shih Poo with treats, praise, and affection when they exhibit positive social behaviors. This will encourage them to continue behaving in a friendly and sociable manner.
By incorporating these tips into your Shih Poo’s daily routine, you can help them develop positive social skills and prevent socialization setbacks. Remember that every dog is different and may require different types of interactions, so be patient and observant to find what works best for your furry friend.
Conclusion: Helping Your Shih Poo Overcome Socialization Setbacks
Overcoming socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo requires patience, effort, and consistent positive reinforcement training. It is important to understand that socialization is a continuous process that should start from an early age and be maintained throughout your dog’s life.
Working with a professional may be necessary in some cases, especially if your dog has experienced trauma or aggression. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can offer guidance and support in creating a personalized training plan for your Shih Poo.
Gradual exposure to triggers is another crucial aspect of socialization. It’s important to introduce your dog to new people, places, and situations in a controlled and positive manner. This can help your Shih Poo build confidence and trust, and ultimately overcome their socialization setbacks.
Building trust and confidence is also key. Providing your dog with a safe and consistent environment, plenty of exercise, and positive interactions with people and other pets can help build their self-esteem and social skills.
Ultimately, the best way to prevent socialization setbacks in your Shih Poo is to start early and be consistent with positive reinforcement training. Surrounding your dog with love, patience, and encouragement can help instill a lifelong sense of confidence and sociability. Remember, every dog is unique, so it’s essential to tailor your training approach to your dog’s individual needs and personality.
With time and effort, you can help your Shih Poo navigate the world with ease, confidence, and a wag in their tail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can socialization setbacks be fixed?
Yes, with proper training and patience, socialization setbacks in Shih Poos can be remedied.
What are the common socialization setbacks in Shih Poos?
Common socialization setbacks in Shih Poos include fear of strangers, anxiety in new environments, and aggressive behavior.
What causes socialization setbacks in Shih Poos?
Socialization setbacks in Shih Poos can be caused by lack of early socialization, traumatic experiences, and health issues.
Can socialization setbacks be prevented?
Yes, socialization setbacks in Shih Poos can be prevented with early and ongoing socialization, proper health care, and positive interactions with people and pets.
What is positive reinforcement training?
Positive reinforcement training is a method of training dogs that uses rewards and praise to encourage good behavior.
How can gradual exposure to triggers help with socialization setbacks?
Gradual exposure to triggers can help desensitize a Shih Poo to the things that cause their socialization setbacks, making them less anxious or fearful over time.
What is the role of trust and confidence in dealing with socialization setbacks?
Building trust and confidence is important in dealing with socialization setbacks because it helps the Shih Poo feel more secure and comfortable in new situations.
When should I seek professional help for my Shih Poo’s socialization setbacks?
You should seek professional help for your Shih Poo’s socialization setbacks if you have tried training and other methods without success, or if the behavior is becoming increasingly severe.
How important is early socialization in preventing socialization setbacks?
Early socialization is crucial in preventing socialization setbacks because it helps a Shih Poo become comfortable and confident in various social situations from a young age.
Can health issues contribute to socialization setbacks in Shih Poos?
Yes, health issues such as poor eyesight or hearing can make a Shih Poo more anxious and fearful in new environments, leading to socialization setbacks.
