Tips for Introducing Two Dogs
A friend or other family member is needed for this crucial first step, each of you handling a different dog. You’ll want to introduce the dogs to each other in a neutral territory, so choose a place your existing dog doesn’t normally walk or play, such as a dog park you haven’t visited before. When Fido doesn’t think he has to protect his territory, he’s more apt to welcome the advances of a new dog. Don’t introduce a new dog in the current dog’s home!
Keeping the humans between the dogs on a long walk after their time together in a dog park is the next step to creating a successful multi-dog family. With both dogs on leash and with people forming a barrier between them, they have the chance to get used to each other’s company without stress.
After the walk, it’s time to introduce the new dog to his new home. The order in which you enter the house is very important. People go first, current dog goes next, and new dog takes up the rear. This creates an atmosphere of invitation rather than invasion.
Not all dogs are alpha dogs. Sometimes the current dog will happily allow the newcomer to take over as the boss, once he is established in the home. However, it is imperative that you allow the dogs themselves to make that decision, rather than automatically trying to install the first dog as the leader. In my home, our oldest dog doesn’t want to be the pack leader, and is perfectly happy to let someone else have that position—after he has welcomed the stranger on his own terms.
Be sure to feed dogs separately, preferably in crates or in different rooms. Don’t expect them to eat from the same bowl, share the same bed, or play with the same toys. The same is true of giving them raw bones or high-value treats; resource guarding should be prevented rather than trying to correct this difficult and potentially dangerous behavior.
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