Introducing a new dog to the pack doesn't have to end badly if certain steps are followed. It's not a process that can be done quickly and all at once. Dogs tend to be very protective of their territory and don't want others to invade their space. This is why you can't allow a new dog to simply walk in and meet your other pets on their own. The pets already living in the home will view this as an aggressive act and the new dog will not be accepted.
Taking your time and introducing the new dog to the pack the right way will make this meeting go smoothly and eliminate many problems that could occur later.
Steps for introducing a new dog to the pack are as follows:
• Select a neutral area for the dogs to meet for the first time.
• Keep both dogs on a leash but allow them to have slack in the line so they can move around comfortably.
• Allow them to walk past each other a few times so they can pick up each other's scent.
• Begin walking them in the same area and direction for a few minutes and then you can try walking them around together.
• If one of the dogs becomes aggressive, stop the introduction and take him to a separate area to calm down. After he is calm you can start the introduction over again.
• When both pets are being aggressive, it would be best to go your separate ways and try the introduction again later from the beginning. They should eventually get use to each other.
• Keep the meeting fun and entertaining for both dogs by allowing them to play and providing treats for good behavior.
• After both dogs can walk around together peacefully, you can try venturing into the home.
• You should enter the home first and then allow the dogs to follow.
• Keep both dogs on the leash for awhile but you can let them wonder on their own if they are not showing any signs of hostility. You will be able to grab them faster and safer by the leash if they were to become aggressive.
• Fill your pet's bowl with fresh water and then provide fresh water for the new dog and show him where it is located.
• When both dogs are calm and seem to be getting along well, you can remove the leashes but still keep an eye on them for awhile.
• Always keep your tone soft and friendly and have a positive attitude. Your pet can sense your mood.
• Never try to introduce a new dog to more than one pet at a time if you already have two or three pets in the home. Trying to introduce a new dog to all of them at once could be overwhelming for everyone.
Watch for any aggressive behavior for several days and if any occurs, get it under control immediately. Reward all of the pets for good behavior and share your affection equally between them and your introduction should be a success.
