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| ASK A TRAINER: HOW TO INTRODUCE TWO DOGS TO EACH OTHER-Dog training tips free |
Question: We want to adopt a two-year-old male dog. The problem is that we do not know how our nine-year-old female dog will react to her. Where should they meet, and what can we do to ensure that they can get together? They are both sweet and kind dogs! - Sandy, via email
Answer: It is understandable to be anxious when bringing a new dog into your home. When I first decided to get a puppy, I wasn't sure how our seven-year-old dog, Rocky, would react. Rocky was used to being the only dog in the family, so bringing a young puppy would be a major change, and would need to be adjusted. Today, Rocky is 15 years old and our then puppy, Puffy, just turned 8 years old. Happily, both dogs are inseparable!
It is important to note that Rocky and Puffy's friendship did not happen over night. Rocky took time to accept another dog in the house, but with proper guidance and supervision, they are now able to live in harmony. The first thing to note is the age difference. Your nine-year-old woman does not get that much energy at the age of two and this can make it difficult for her. An interesting anecdote in my own situation is that Puffy's "puppy energy" seemed to revive Rocky a lot of times (though not all the time!)
To help reduce potential problems in your situation, I suggest using boxes and gates to separate each dog. It is important that your old dog has a safe and quiet place that he can retreat to for rest and relaxation. The boundless energy of a young dog can sometimes be too much for an older dog, and if it is not allowed a place to "get away", it can cause friction.
As you know first impressions are important, so it is necessary for you to create a pleasant experience for the first introduction. Here are some guidelines to follow:
It is important to note that Rocky and Puffy's friendship did not happen over night. Rocky took time to accept another dog in the house, but with proper guidance and supervision, they are now able to live in harmony. The first thing to note is the age difference. Your nine-year-old woman does not get that much energy at the age of two and this can make it difficult for her. An interesting anecdote in my own situation is that Puffy's "puppy energy" seemed to revive Rocky a lot of times (though not all the time!)
To help reduce potential problems in your situation, I suggest using boxes and gates to separate each dog. It is important that your old dog has a safe and quiet place that he can retreat to for rest and relaxation. The boundless energy of a young dog can sometimes be too much for an older dog, and if it is not allowed a place to "get away", it can cause friction.
As you know first impressions are important, so it is necessary for you to create a pleasant experience for the first introduction. Here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Keep a neutral space as the meeting area.
It is beneficial for two unfamiliar dogs to meet in a neutral area such as a park or a large area. I prefer tennis courts because they provide a large enclosed space for extra security.
2. Do not force dogs to interact, and always give them a "back door".
Allow dogs to examine each other naturally and on their own terms. While it is okay to encourage them with praise and happy talk, do not force them into conversation. And, if one or both dogs want to get away, just let them go. A good idea is to leave their dog leashes (if the dogs are in an enclosed area) so that they do not feel restrained or feel any pressure on you. If you are in an open space, dogs have long line leases so they have room to move around.
3. Be aware of body language.
It is important that you protect the safety of both dogs. The best way to do this is to take care of body language. This can help you predict if something negative is going to happen. Some warning signs include: a face-to-face approach, cold, raised hackles, rising, upper lip or a frozen tail.
4. Avoid treats and toys.
It is advisable to avoid giving dog treats or dog toys to either or both dogs during the first visit. Because many dogs have a tendency to conserve the resource to avoid food and behavior is preferred during the initial meeting. Ideally, you want to allow both dogs to relax as much as possible with each other before testing things like treats, rituals and toy feeding. Once both dogs have met and are ready to go home, make sure that you have arranged a separate space for each dog. This includes individual dog bowls, dog beds, and even different toys. This will reduce the likelihood of either dog feeling as if they have to compete for resources.
When the two types and social dogs first meet in a control setting, things usually go well. Our article Bringing a New Dog Home: To Dog to Tea with Get Too provides additional insight into how to introduce two dogs and help them become friends. Ultimately, you have a better understanding of your older dog and should be able to predict his reaction, or at least intervene if things go bad.
When you have two dogs that do not get along, we recommend you take the following steps to treat dogs. While every dog is a person and reacts differently; Adhering to these guidelines will increase the likelihood of creating a positive experience for both the dog and the "parent".
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