12/11/2024
Here is another perfectly worded article from one of my favorite Canadian sites. This literally is Word for Word what I train and charge $100 an hour to teach you…
Thinking about adding a second (or third or fourth lol) dog to your home?
Introducing a new dog to your home requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition for both the new pet and any existing animals.
1. Prepare by creating a safe space: Set up a designated area for the new dog, such as a crate or a specific room with their bed, food, water, and toys.
2. Use a Leash and Neutral Location for Initial Meetings: When introducing the new dog to existing dogs, keep both on a leash during the first meeting to maintain control and meet somewhere neutral outside the home.
3. Introduce Gradually: Allow the dogs to sniff each other and observe their body language. Look for signs of friendliness, such as relaxed tails and playful behavior.
4. Supervise Initial Interactions: Monitor their interactions closely, especially during the first few days. Be ready to intervene if necessary to prevent escalation.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward both dogs with treats and praise for calm and friendly behavior towards each other. This helps create positive associations.
6. Give Each Dog Individual Attention: Spend quality time with each dog separately to prevent jealousy and help the new dog bond with you.
7. Establish Routines: Create a consistent routine for feeding, walks, and playtime. This helps the new dog feel secure and understand what to expect.
8. Be Patient: Adjustments can take time. Some dogs may take longer than others to acclimate to a new environment or to accept a new companion.
9. Monitor for Issues: Keep an eye on interactions and look for signs of stress or aggression. If conflicts arise, separate the dogs and try reintroducing them later.
10. Gradually Introduce the Home Environment: Once the initial introductions are successful, allow the new dog to explore the home while continuing to supervise.
11. Veterinary Check-up: Schedule a vet visit for the new dog to ensure they are healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. This is especially important if you have other pets.
