Puppy socialization in Pretoria- three different spots to visit with your new puppy

We all know how important it is to socialize a puppy. Its critical for healthy development and really helps them to grow into well-adjusted and confident adult dogs. We have an awesome podcast with more info on doing puppy socialization the right way.

If you’re like me, you’re always looking for places that are perfect for socializing your puppy in Pretoria. These are three of my favorite spots you can explore with your new puppy.

1.       Irene Village Mall:

The mall is in Centurion, so although it is not in Pretoria, its worth the short drive! The mall is completely dog-friendly so you can take your pup shopping with you! My border collie loved exploring the statues all over the mall and taking a short ride in the small kiddie’s train that drives through the mall. The mall is also always full of kiddies playing in the fountain and climbing on the upside-down cow which is perfect for socialization. You can go to Starbucks with your puppy or relax at any of the other restaurants in the Piazza area. This is also an important puppy training skill to focus on- relaxing in a busy area. The puppies can also ride in the lift, something that can be scary if not introduced the right way. The outing with your puppy can be jam packed with socialization opportunities. We had an adventure at Irene Village Mall so I recommend stopping by for sure.

All in all, the mall has LOADS of socialisation opportunities for a puppy and I wish I knew about the mall sooner.

2.       Hazel Food Market:

The marker is one of many pet-friendly markets in Pretoria and is located centrally in Menlo Park. There are many visitors that bring their dogs along, perfect for teaching your puppy some manners around unfamiliar dogs. The market is also great for meeting new people and building confidence around all the surfaces, smells and sights.  Just remember that puppy socialisation is all about positive experiences around unfamiliar things, not necessarily interaction, but positive experiences. There is also a lot of food at this market, perfect for focusing on manners around food.

Other markets perfect for puppy socializing include: The Pretoria Boeremark, Cowhouse Market, Irene Village Market, Paws and Play Pet Market, Deep Roots Night Market and Busstop7 Open Air Market.

3.      Tashas in Brooklyn Mall:

Although Brooklyn Mall itself is not dog friendly, Tashas is! You can take your puppy on a lunch date. The food is fabulous, healthy and reasonable prices. With all the foot traffic past the restaurant and the kiddies play area close by, this is perfect for socialising. Once again, practicing relaxation in the outside worlds too. The puppy are always treated really well and the restaurant is not far from the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary. Why not stop there on the way home to look at the animals in the sanctuary.

Other coffee shops and restaurants include: As Greek as it gets, Plan B Bistro, Plato Coffee, Joyce Coffee, Prospopa, Afro-Boer, Khaleo, Chocolat et Café, Whisk, Aroma, Huckelberry’s Restaurant, La Madeleine, Capital Craft Beer Academy and The Brazen Head.

We are always looking for more dog-friendly spots. Read about a stay at Burkei Guest Cottages and and a hike at Leeuwenkloof.

- Angelique de Kock