Whether you are considering adding another dog to your family or you will be having a canine visitor, you need to ensure that the dogs' first meeting is a positive one. Every dog is different and, while some will welcome a strange dog into their home with little objection, others can become defensive or possessive. Introducing dogs should be done in a methodical manner, at each dog's rate of acceptance. This guarantees that their initial greetings go well and they will become friends.
Often, more dogs means more fun, but only if they get along. Let's make sure the introduction of yours goes smoothly.
Whether you are welcoming a new dog permanently into your home or only as a guest, The number one step during a first meeting is to be sure to have the dogs on neutral territory. Let them freely greet each other without a tight leash. They may run up and sniff one other eagerly but this does not always mean they are about to be aggressive. It may merely be that they are eager to greet a new friend, so remain calm and enthusiastic. Dogs react to your emotions and, if you are tense, then they will believe the situation is stressful, too.
Here's are the steps for introducing dogs:
Some dogs can be possessive of their beds and toys. Prior to bringing a new dog into your home, put your dog's toys and bed in a room where the new dog will not be able to access them. This will reduce the incidence of stress due to possessiveness. If the new dog is to become a permanent member of your family, you can bring out your first dog's bed and toys once the two dogs are relaxed around each other. At the same time, place another bed and toys for the new dog so that each dog feels at home.
It would also be helpful to place DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) diffusers throughout the house (or use the DAP spray) and even put Adaptil™ collars on both dogs. As the dogs will be receiving the pheromone of relaxation, they will be inclined to be more accepting of each other. (To learn more about dog appeasing pheromones, read this article.)
Not all dogs have the best social manners, but this doesn't mean they won't eventually learn and do well with a new canine friend. You will just need to take extra time during the introduction and the first few weeks of becoming a multi-dog family.
Knowing canine body language cues which will help you read your dogs feelings, ensuring a smooth introduction:
Often, when dogs meet, they will display calming signals. This is body language that aids in diffusing a tense situation. Many dogs avoid aggressive interactions by using these signals to relate a desire to interact peacefully.
Here's a list of calming signals that you are likely to see during dog introductions:
All calming signals are signs of acceptance by the dog who displays them.
Dogs generally love the company of other dogs. Take the time to introduce the dogs correctly and they will be lifelong friends.
Be sure to read the next article: Tips for the First Few Weeks with Multiple Dogs
Related Articles:
Tips for the First Few Weeks with Multiple Dogs
How to Cope with Canine Anxiety and Fear by Using Adaptil™ (Formerly called D.A.P)
Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information at DogHealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site. Just Answer is an external service not affiliated with DogHealth.com.