Socialization

What is it, when and how does it happen?

It is definitely a process that has very positive results when it happens at a young age, and can last a lifetime. My definition would be that a socialized dog is a dog that will stay relaxed and focused on his handler under any distraction.
The correct socialization is to provide pleasant and positive experiences to our dog in different environments. In other words, we have to create scenarios that involve other dogs, strangers (to our dog), different places and surfaces, under mild or strong distractions. It goes without saying that in these scenarios we have to control the parameters to a great extent. Initially, everything is done in a completely controlled distraction-free environment.
If you find yourself with your dog in a stressful environment, then the best thing to do is to move away immediately and bring him back to a place where he feels comfortable again. There is no need to pressure your dog thinking that he will get used to it and adapt if you insist. These things take time, they need to be gradual and always under control. After all, you can not correct fear.

What is not socialization!

Socializing is definitely not about leaving our dog off leash to "play" with other dogs in the park. This is very dangerous, since we do not control any variables in such an environment. Many things can go wrong in such cases. A common scenario that should be avoided is contact with unknown dogs who are off leash and without the presence of their handler. When we do not know the other dog, then we can not know his intentions or possible reactions. So, for example, we run the risk of our dog bite or get bitten from the other dog, and this may become the start of an aggressive or phobic behavior that it's not easy or certain that you can change it.
There are many cases where a stranger approached me and, without asking, tried to pet or play with my dog. Going over an unknown dog while you are twice its size, and making sharp movements with your hands is a very wrong move that can turn out very badly. Many customers have to deal with problematic behaviors that were initiated in an uncontrolled environment and soon the problem grew.