Introduce a New Dog

How to Introduce a New Dog to My Dog when It Comes Home?

QUESTION: We are getting a new dog, but it has been known to attack other dogs. We have two dogs already, a 3 year old and a mix bread puppy about 6 months old. My two dogs get along great. I don't know what I should do to make sure everything goes well.

ANSWER. You need to take the time to find out WHY the new dog goes after other dogs. It may just be a socializing issue. It also may be something much more serious.

No matter what, you need to introduce them slowly and YOU need to be in complete control. Don't let them meet face to face unless the aggressive dog is fitted with a muzzle.

Start with all dogs on a leash and at a long distance apart. Then slowly move closer with the new dog. When the new dog reacts, say "NO" and move it away and calm it back down. When it is calm, give it a small treat and tell it "Good Dog" or what ever you choose for reward phrase. The point of this is to show the new dog that good things happen when another dog is near.

Continue this until they can sit together quietly. WARNING: this may take weeks ... or it may only take a few hours. If the dog is just excited, it will take less time, if it "wants to kill" you will need to get some help from a professional trainer.