Planning for a second dog? Tips for introducing a new dog to your pet family

Are you thinking of growing your pet family this upcoming new year? Having a second dog at home can have many wonderful benefits for your first dog. Gaining a new companion at home can help with your first dog’s fitness, socialization, and overall well-being. Although like any of us, your first dog might need an adjustment period for this big change. 

Here are a few tips and pointers for how to introduce your new dog to your first dog! 

1. Prepare a safe space for your new dog

   
   Reserve an area for your new dog that doesn’t intrude on your first dog’s space. It’s crucial that your new dog feels safe and your first dog still feels like the alpha of the home. 

2. Use their scents to help your first dog adjust 

   
   You can prepare for your new dog’s arrival ahead of time too! If possible, get a shirt/blanket with your new dog’s scent and place it in your first dog’s sleeping area. 

3. Don’t assume your dogs will share everything 

   
   Prepare a separate bowl, leash, toys for your new pet. If your dogs decide to share in the future, let it be their choice. 

4. Supervise the introduction 

   
   It’s time for the actual meeting! In the beginning, avoid leaving your dogs together unattended, especially if one of them is a smaller, younger dog. 

5. Observe their body language 

   
   Pay attention if any of your dogs show signs of stress (ex. Growling, tucking their tail). If one of them doesn’t look comfortable, separate them at first and try again later. 

6. Introduce walks and playtime

   
   A great way to get your two dogs to bond is through joint walks! After your dogs are more familiar with each other, you can also introduce some off-leash playtime. 

7. Be patient

   
   

   Don’t panic if your dogs don’t get along right away! Some dogs take up to a few months to adjust to a new family puppy. Continue giving them chances to socialize and they’ll both get there in their own time. 

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