: At Home

How do I introduce my resident dog to another dog?

Most dogs enjoy the company of other dogs. No-one can 'speak dog' quite like another canine. Yet, if you're introducing a new dog into a home where one already resides, there will be a few things to be aware of.

The best place to introduce dogs is on neutral territory, ideally in a park. Enlist a family member or friend to give your resident pet a good long walk before meeting you and the new pup.

If you've already brought the pup home, keep the two dogs separated for a few days, allowing the older dog to get used to the new smells and changed atmosphere. Give the dogs each other's bedding to sniff, while speaking in upbeat friendly tones.

Your resident dog may not take too kindly to this new arrival, who threatens to take your attention away. You want your older dog to think that when this new pup is around, they can expect lots of attention, it's a good thing! If you have two resident dogs, let them meet the puppy one at a time.

Before the pup and older dog meet, you can minimise the risk of possessive behaviour by keeping all toys, bones and bowls out of sight. These things should be kept in your possession - it'll help your dogs to see you as the boss.

Opinions vary as to whether the dogs should be on or off the leash for the first meeting. You know your older dog, and you're be the best judge, but if in doubt use a leash.

The dogs should be allowed to approach it other at their own pace. If one or both appears agitated, distract them, and encourage them to move to another area. If they become playful with each other, don't let the play get too rough or out of hand. Again, distract them. Don't be too concerned if the older dog growls or nips at the pup - the older dog is establishing boundaries. But if there is an ongoing problem with rivalry or aggression, consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.

The solution to potential jealousy or rivalry is for the dogs to associate each other with positive and fun things. You want to create a win-win situation for them, so give both dogs plenty of praise for behaving in each other's presence. Even if your dogs aren't doing much, just lying peacefully near each other, this is something to praise.

Until you're confident there aren't any problems, separate the dogs when you leave the house, and supervise them when they're together. Also feed them in separate areas.

Over time, you may observe that one of the dogs seems more dominant than the other. Until recently, owners were instructed to support the dominant dog's role. New research indicates that dogs should be treated equally, especially when they are both adults. Give them turns at getting treats and pats first, and reinforce your role as the benevolent boss. If you're thinking about adding another dog to the household but have not yet done so, consider getting one of the opposite sex to your resident pet. While same sex canine pairs can and do get along, a male and a female is usually the best match and will decrease the chance of rivalry.

Dogs are pack animals. They are incredibly social. A dog home alone can easily become bored and lonely, which can lead to destructive and problem behaviours. Of course, there may be the occasional rufflings of fur, but two dogs provide each other with ongoing mental and physical exercise, as well as a very special and rewarding companionship.