Ease into introducing new addition to current dogs

Question: I have a 2-year-old female dog and want to introduce a new member to the family, a 1-year-old rescue female dog. I’m worried about aggression from my first dog, since she is a strong alpha female. Any suggestions? – Monika

Answer: It can be tricky to introduce a new dog into the family. I am glad that you are trying to get help. People often decide to get a new dog and do not think about how they will get along with the existing pets.

Some dogs have not been properly socialized with other dogs, cats, or humans. These dogs will have a hard time getting along with any dog. Take time to get to know the new dog and if possible arrange the first meeting in a neutral location away from their homes.

You may be able to have the dogs meet at a dog park or a doggie day care center. The dogs can be walked around at a distance so that they can smell and see each other and then if they both seem calm you can try off leash. Some dogs are more likely to be reactive while on leash, so try to find a location where they can see each other through a chain link fence.

If the dogs appear to be friendly, that is a good sign. Several meetings like this is ideal. When you actually bring the new dog home, it may not go as well. The established family dog may get aggressive over her territory and toys. You can try putting each dog in a separate crate, and when they are calm, let one dog out to walk around and sniff the other dog through the bars of the crate. Then put that dog back in her crate and let the other one out to sniff around.

Make sure all food, treats, chews, and toys are put away for the initial greeting. Fights can start over guarding food or toys. If you give one dog a treat, give the other dog a treat and make sure that it is not given in a way that may make the dogs want to fight over it.

With patience and guidance, the introduction usually goes well.

Dr. Baker

Dr. Susan Baker
Baker Veterinary Clinic
1801 S. Congress Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
Read more articles by Dr. Baker | Ask her a question

Source: http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/pawshere/2012/08/24/ease-into-introducing-new-addition-to-current-dogs/

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