Introducing a new pet into your family can be an exciting experience, but can also be quite difficult should things go wrong. Let’s have a look at introducing your new pets to one another in the best and safest way.
Introducing your new dog
The best advice is to introduce dogs to one another in neutral territory. Choose a place where your existing dog does not usually walk or play, such as a new dog park or even a friend’s garden. When a dog feels it does not need to protect its territory, it will be more willing to welcome the advances of a new dog.It is crucial that you have more than one person present, so that each dog can be handled. Be aware, however, that sometimes your dog may feel it needs to protect you as the owner from the new dog. This was the case when I had to introduce my dogs to my parents’ dogs, and I realised that it would be best that I was out of the picture completely.
Vinkel is very protective of me, and so is their Great Dane, Pablo. I realised it would be best to let my mom and dad take care of the initial introduction, with me quite nervously watching from the kitchen window. On a previous occasion, we had made an initial introduction at the dog park, but because Pablo was so overwhelmed to see me, and Vinkel so intent on protecting me from this big white giant that I ended up trapped in the middle. It was quite a scary moment for me, but the second time around with introductions luckily went a lot better. Especially with me out of the way.
Many experts suggest that then taking the two dogs on a walk, with humans as a barrier between them, gives them the opportunity to become used to one another without stress.
Once at home
After such a walk, it’s time to introduce the new dog to his new home. Be aware that everyone simply storming into the house at the same time is not a good idea. The order in which you enter the house is very important. People should enter first, the existing dog next and then finally the new dog. This creates an atmosphere of invitation, rather than invasion and will make your current dog feel that it still comes first.
Your existing dog may not remain the alpha dog, but it’s important to give them time to figure out the dynamic between themselves.
Remember to devote time to both dogs, so that the existing dog does not feel insecure and the new dog feels part of its new family. Allow the dogs to get used to each other through smelling one another and playing, but keep a close eye on them until you are comfortable that they will not become aggressive towards one another.
Should you find that your pets do not get along, it’s a good idea to get a pet trainer involved, or advice from your local vet.
Other tips include making sure they are separated at mealtimes, keep an eye on them and if one dog finishes before the other make sure that the other dog keeps its distance. Also watch the existing dog with favourite toys; they might suddenly become aggressive around these if a new dog takes interest. Also make sure that both dogs have a safe and comfortable bed in order to have their own space.
Research well
Keep in mind that if you are introducing a puppy, it is quite different than introducing a fully grown dog. If you do decide to add an older dog to your family, make sure about its history first and if the new dog will fit in with your family and existing dog. The last thing you want to do is to adopt a dog only to return it to the adoption agency. Research is key. Also, make sure that your existing dog is able to socialise with other dogs.
Should you be unsure, get the help of a professional dog trainer and make sure you do all the research you can, ensuring that you do not find yourself in a position where things do not work out between your existing and new dog.
That’s it for this week, from me, Vinkel and Koljander.
Paw five! Woof!
