How do I introduce my dog to a new dog?
We are adopting a one-year old retriever mix from the shelter. What is the best way of introducing him to our other two-year old female dog?
Because both dogs are young, this transition will be a little less stressful for you than if the dogs were older. Introducing pets that are not too set in their ways usually makes things easier. It also helps that one dog is female; female dogs tend to be more accepting of outsiders than a more dominant male.
It is helpful to try to introduce them very gradually. It would be a good idea if the dogs could meet for the first time on neutral territory. Try taking them to a park or some location that is not on either one of their "turfs." Keep the dogs on leashes and allow them to sniff each other but do not give them the opportunity to fight. This interaction will give you a starting point. If there is aggression on neutral territory it may be quite difficult to move them in together.
It will be very important for you to reinforce the dominance hierarchy once established. This means that when one dog establishes itself as the top dog and wants attention you must give it to the dominant dog and rebuff the other if it comes seeking attention. This may be hard for you to do as most people feel for the "underdog." Unfortunately, if you push the dominant dog away to pet the dog of lower status, it can cause the top dog to punish the other pet. In most cases there will not be an altercation, but be prepared for one anyway.
Keep your pets on leashes even in the house. DO NOT GET BETWEEN FIGHTING DOGS. Even if your pets love you, when they are fighting they may bite you. Use their attached leashes to separate them. Remember that gradual introduction is the key. Do not expect them to be best friends right away; tolerance is a good thing too. If there are problems, the doctor is your best source of information. If the problems are significant he or she may also recommend that a short course of medication is necessary to facilitate the transition.
Dear Dr. Voynick,
I wanted to apprise you of Charlie’s status. Now 11 days after his stem cell procedure, he is doing fantastic! Exactly 5 days post stem cell procedure, changes started to occur. Since then, and visible on a daily basis, Charlie’s whole attitude has become increasingly more positive. He is vibrant and really, really happy. Each day he seems stronger and more easily able to get around, taking 1 – 2 walks a day on his own volition. I can’t wait to show you the pictures. His suture area is almost not even visible anymore. He has been eating with a great deal more enthusiasm. My husband and I agree that Charlie has had noticeable improvement and seems to be getting a bit “younger by the day”. He is doing the stairs more easily too and oh yes, that sore on his back paw is almost completely healed. Pretty unbelievable results overall for a 14 year old!
Hope you are very well,
Leslie
