When you bring a new dog into your family, it’s exciting to see how they’ll interact with your existing pets. Adding a new dog can provide companionship, fun and excitement for your other pets. However, sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as you’d like. If your new dog doesn’t hit it off with the rest of your pets, you might be in for some stress.

What’s the best way to introduce a new dog to your existing pets successfully? At Dan’s Pet Care, we understand how difficult it can be when pet personalities clash with one another. In this article, you’ll learn some strategies for successfully introducing your new furry friend to other pets living in your home.

Selecting your new dog with care: A guide to introductions

When you’re looking for a new dog to purchase or adopt, it’s important to be realistic about the rest of the pets in your care. Some types of dogs simply struggle to live peacefully under the same roof together. Consider these factors when making your decision.

Considering age when introducing a new dog to your pets

If you have older pets already in your home, they can have a harder time adapting to change. Likewise, adopting an older dog could prove complicated if your house is full of energetic puppies.

Introducing a new dog: considerations for reproductive status

It can be very hard for intact male dogs to live together without conflict. Neutering reduces aggression and territorial behavior and will help your male dogs get along. If you’re bringing an intact male into a household with a female dog — even if she’s spayed — you may have to deal with unwanted behavior. For a multi-pet household, it’s best to ensure each pet is spayed or neutered as early in life as your veterinarian recommends.

Introducing a new dog: considerations for size and breed compatibility

Introducing a new dog, particularly of a different dog breed, into your household might be easier if they're approximately the same size as your current pets. Your Chihuahua may be lively and spirited, but your new American bulldog may not find their charm amusing. Don’t forget to keep dog breed and size into consideration.

Creating a personal space for your new dog introduction"

Your new pet will want some space of their own to retreat to when things get chaotic. Provide them with their own room containing everything they need: food and water, toys, and a soft place to lie down. This makes it easier to separate your pets if the need arises.

Gradually introduce your new dog to existing pets

Before your new pet meets your existing pets face to face, allow them to sniff bedding and toys that belong to one another. This will help to familiarize all your pets, new and old, with each others’ scents. At first, you may want to let your new pet play with your existing pets for an hour or so a day. Supervise their play carefully, and be ready to end it if things get tense.

Offer your new and existing dog plenty of treats and rewards

It’s important for your existing pets to feel good about spending time with your new dog. While you’re introducing your new pet to your older ones, be sure to keep the tone light and offer lots of treats for good behavior. Be ready to introduce new toys or activities into the situation to keep them focused on something positive.

Monitor your pets' body language during new dog introduction

Pets will often signal that trouble is coming before it strikes. If you see growling or prolonged staring, it’s time to intervene before things get worse. Separate your pets for a while and try introductions again later. If your existing pets include cats, keep a close eye on them for signs of fear and anxiety. They may need a safe, dog-free place to retreat to for a while. Ask your veterinarian about tools and supplements that can help reduce anxiety for all of your household pets — whether they need it temporarily or long-term.

Ensure fair treatment when introducing a new dog

If your new pet is getting a lot more attention than your older pets, they’re likely to get jealous. This could lead to territorial behavior and rivalry in your home. Share your attention equally among all your pets, and remember to reassure your existing pets that they’re still important to you. As much as possible, focus on shared activities that include all your pets. This can help to foster bonding and a sense of cooperation.

Ready to meet the pet pros?

You might say Dan’s Pet Care has been around the block a few times when it comes to making pet introductions. No matter what your pet care needs may be — from doggy day care to walks to grooming and much more — we’re here to meet them all. Fill out our consultation form to get started today!