Cindy's Answer:
When you talk about socialization, it's often obvious most people think it means letting everyone pet your dog and letting it play with other dogs. I don't do that. Read our article about socialization here.
I believe PROPER socialization is extremely important but like all things related to raising and training dogs, it's very dog-dependent. Some genetically rock-solid/confident dogs need very little but others need more.
I've done protection sports with my various dogs since the mid-1980s and I have noticed that a sport dog that wasn't socialized out in the real world may be great on a sport field or similar venue but may struggle on a city street, or slippery floors, or an unfamiliar location. Some trainers don't care if the dog can walk on a busy street or be fine at the park because they have the dog for one purpose only-competition. I feel that you learn a lot about your dog's strengths and weaknesses by taking them out in the world and seeing how they react to different environments and experiences.
I have a 12-week-old puppy right now and I take him somewhere every day and take notice of how he reacts to different environments. As a student of dog training, behavior, and genetics, these things matter to me, especially if I ever would want to use my dog in a breeding program. I want to know where the "holes" are (and all dogs have some shortcomings that may not be apparent on a sport field where they are in drive and know what to expect)
If a dog doesn't pan out for sport work and would have to be rehomed or become a family pet, a dog that has been socialized properly will have a much easier time acclimating to a new situation and will be much more likely to work out in the new home.
My dogs are family members, hiking partners, and companions too and that's just as important to me as working ability. I know not everyone feels that way and that's fine. For me, a well-rounded dog that can comfortably go anywhere is priceless.
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