Introducing Dogs To Dogs

If you already have a dog (or dogs), will your new dog get along with them? In the majority of cases, yes they will. Most of the time, the dogs will sniff each other, one might overstep the mark and get put in its place, both should learn their place and then get on like the best of friends! It helps if your pets are spayed or neutered; those that haven't been are more prone to fighting. And always, always remember to keep giving resident dogs an equal amount of attention, so they won't see the new dog as a threat.

Introducing a new puppy

  • Before a new puppy comes home, make sure your adult dog's vaccinations are up to date to ensure the puppy is protected. Introduce them to each other slowly.
  • Take your puppy outside to the garden and let it have a good wander round. Then bring out the adult dog, preferably on a long, loose lead (unless your first dog enjoys chasing small animals) as dogs sometimes feel they have something to prove when restricted. When the puppy approaches keep the lead loose and calmly tell them they are good dogs, ignoring any growling or barking.
  • If your adult dog is really hypnotised by the puppy, separate the two and introduce them again later. After several short introductions, they will be quite familiar and relaxed with each other.

Introducing an adult dog
If you're introducing an older dog to a resident dog, don't assume they'll make friends straight away. Let them get to know each other gradually, keeping a close eye on things as they inspect each other.

  • It is preferable to introduce two adult dogs on neutral ground, where the resident dog is less likely to feel territorial. Keeping them both on leads, allow them to check each other out.
  • If they start to fight, separate them immediately and wait until the dogs calm down before attempting another introduction.

If, despite your best efforts, you just cannot trust your canines to be civilised, or they just don't seem to settle, keep them separated and contact a professional trainer or behaviourist. Your vet should be able to recommend someone.