It is
very important for your puppy to
mix with other dogs and puppy's when he is out on his walk.
It is a good opportunity for your puppy to establish puppy etiquette and also helps to make sure that your puppy doesn't develop any fearful or unwanted dog or puppy behavior when he is approached by dogs of different sizes and temperaments.
Although it is good practice for your puppy to mix with different sized dogs and incorporates
puppy socialization into his walk don't assume that all big dogs can't be trusted as it is more common for your puppy to be attacked by a dog of a
similar size and stature
A good way to introduce your puppy to other dogs is to
gently place your puppy on the ground and keep crouched down next to your puppy and gently allow the other dog to approach - if your puppy becomes scared he can retreat under your legs.
If your puppy becomes
too scared
gently push the other dog away - this will
reinforce your position as the pack leader and alpha male and the person your puppy should look up to.
Meeting other people on his walk.
You are bound to have people aproach you and your adorable puppy when you are out for a walk.
Although it is a good idea that you introduce your puppy to as many new experiences as possible -
when you introduce your puppy to people out on his walk you need to do it gradually.
Make sure that strangers approach your puppy
slowly so that your puppy can sniff their hands first.
Also ask them
not to stare directly into your puppy's eyes as this is a direct challenge.
A good way to get your puppy used to people staring into his eyes is to practice doing it home with your puppy as this will get him used to eye contact and also help him to understand that a person's different facial expressions are not threatening.
If you would like some more information on the first walk with your puppy - take a look at our section on
puppy leash training. 
