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 about each other’s character 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 squabbling. And always, always remember to keep giving resident dogs their usual 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 him have a good wander round and then put him on a lead. Then bring out the adult dog, also on a lead and perhaps wearing a headcollar if he is used to it as this will help calm him and you to keep control if he becomes excited. When the puppy approaches keep the lead loose and calmly tell them they are good dogs, ignoring any whining or barking.
• If your adult dog is really excited 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 behaviourist. Your vet should be able to recommend someone.

The information contained in this article is not a substitute for individual veterinary or behavioural advice and is for information purposes only. You should always consult a veterinary surgeon if you have any concerns about your pet’s health. He or she will be able to take a complete medical history and physically examine your pet, to then recommend appropriate individual advice or treatment options. For detailed behavioural advice tailored specifically for your pet, we recommend that you contact a qualified pet behaviourist. For further details of local canine and feline behaviourists practising in your area and how they offer help for with problem pets, please contact The Coape Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers at www.capbt.org, or the Association of Pet Dog Trainers at www.apdt.co.uk. Do bear in mind that while dog trainers can take you on as a client directly, pet behaviourists will always require a referral from your veterinary surgeon.