Keeping canines happy: how to introduce dogs to each other

Got a new canine on the block? Here we explore how to introduce dogs and how to keep the peace from the off, for happy pets all round. While dogs are social animals, it’s important to get those early introductions right. So without any further ado, let’s get into it.

How to introduce dogs to each other

Introducing a new furry companion can actually provide mental stimulation for dogs, but it takes forethought - first impressions really count. Here are a few things to consider before you introduce two dogs:

• Make sure there is one person per dog at all times.
• Invest in a long lead (up to 6 foot) that’ll help you control your pup.
• The first introduction should be on neutral territory outdoors where both dogs feel more relaxed.
• Have a handful of high-value treats to hand - these will make sure your dog associates the new pup with positive experiences.
• Take it slow and follow both dogs’ pace with the interaction, and completely avoid forcing any play or close contact.

Start with a walk on neutral territory

While walkies might seem like the most simple thing in the world, we can confirm it needs a lot more thought when it comes to how to introduce dogs to each other. Follow our step-by-step advice on how to introduce a new dog, starting on neutral ground.

• Before the two soon-to-be amigos meet face to face, walk the dogs at a distance apart in the same direction. Reward your pup with praise each time they look at the other dog, and keep this going for the duration of the walk.
• The aim is for your dog to pay more attention to you than the other dog, so move a little closer when you’re comfortable with both dogs’ behavior. If they become excitable or more interested in the other dog than you, move apart again and continue walking side by side.
• Repeat this process until both dogs can walk side by side, almost completely ignoring one another. And remember, this will only be achieved if you reward your dog heavily for the right behavior and take things slowly.

• Once both dogs are remaining calm while walking side-by-side, it’s time to let them circle and sniff. If either freeze, gently walk your dog away to create some space. 
• Continue the distanced walkies, but keep introducing the circle and sniff until both dogs are comfortable with one another.
• Once you’ve witnessed a fair few positive interactions between the two pups and they seem relaxed, allow them to freely interact in a fenced area. We’d advise letting them loose on a 6 foot lead, so that you can easily walk them away if needed. 
• Continue these dog meets in an open area several times until both dogs have formed a trusting bond. If you’d like both pups to be able to interact in each of their homes, take a look below for advice.

How to introduce dogs at home

• Meet outdoors first. It’s vital the new pup and resident dog get to know each other outdoors before you introduce one to the other’s home. Make sure the dogs interact positively outdoors, and seem to have a trusting canine bond before you consider taking it indoors.
• Pay attention to your dogs’ body language. If your pup freezes, gently walk them away and stay calm yourself so that both dogs remain relaxed.
• Take it slow. Avoid rushing the two dogs to get along - when it comes to how you introduce dogs to each other, you really need to take it at their pace.
• Allow for breaks. Keep meetings short and sweet at first, and take a couple of days between meetings.
• Keep food bowls and toys out of the way. One way to really wind up the resident furry family member is for another dog to take a nibble from their biscuit bowl, so keep it out of sight (and smell!) during initial visits.
• Breathing space. If a squabble occurs, separate the dogs for a few days so that stress levels have the chance to go back to normal before reintroducing the dogs.

How to introduce a puppy to an older dog

If you’re wondering how to introduce a puppy to a dominant dog, our best advice is to start with distanced parallel walks, heavily rewarding both dogs. Slowly close the distance between them, and only let the sniffs happen once both dogs can calmly walk side by side without making a fuss. 

And naturally, you’ll want to know how to introduce a new puppy to your dog at home - take this slowly and make use of a baby gate. Remember, this is your first dog’s home, so the introduction needs to honor their space and the new pup’s safety equally.

Why do dogs get so excited when you come home?

Ever wondered why you’re showered with kisses and squeals when you arrive home? Explore our blog on why dogs get so excited when you come home to find out.