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Here are some tips from rescue
groups regarding introducing a new dog to your pack:
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Have a helper! You
need at least one other adult who is comfortable around dogs to
assist you. Discuss the procedure ahead of time so that the
person knows what to expect. Have no children involved. First
impressions are important, but dont expect too much from either
dog right away! Start out at a distance and get them closer
together if there is no obvious aggression. Interested barking is
different from foaming at the mouth!! They may instantly get
along or perhaps it will take a while.
Introduce dogs one at a
time. First bring out the one that you perceive as most receptive
to a new pack member. Leave the least receptive dog for last.
After all dogs have met well on a 1 to 1 basis, reintroduce them
by adding one until they are all together.
It is BEST to introduce
dogs on neutral ground if you feel the established pet is at all
territorial. A safe location outdoors is recommended! Make sure
no toys or other bones of contention are present. As an
alternative, you and your helper could leash walk the dogs,
letting them sniff at each other making sure it stays polite
sniffing. When you finally get into a fenced area and feel ready
to drop (not remove) the leads, have a broom handy. Use a broom
to distract the dogs should their eyes lock in a potential
confrontation. NEVER swing the broom, just place it between them
if necessary.
Stay calm, even if you
need to intervene at some point. Remember, even kids on a
playground have scuffles and then they play together nicely once
rules have been established. Try to keep commands positive rather
than No, Bad dog. Treats for good dog behavior are fine as long
as the treats dont become a source of argument. It may take a
while to feel confident enough to take everyone inside.
Once inside, make sure the new dog
isnt in a position of infringing, knowingly or unknowingly, on a
favorite bowl, bed, toy, etc. Plan ahead by eliminating as many
disruptive variables as possible. SUPERVISE even if all is going
better than expected.
NEVER crate dogs
together or leave them unsupervised together if you are not at
home. Separate, crate, whatever You are the alpha influence in
your home. When you are away, with a new dog in the home, second
in command may be up for grabs.
Be perceptive. Pet parenting is a
lot like child parenting! They keep you on your toes, but it is
so worth the effort!
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