Dog Introductions
Dog to Dog Introductions
Some dogs could be introduced in a closet without incident. But if you are reading this page that does not apply to your dog, nor would I recommend it for any dog. Since we only get one chance to make a good first introduction and impression set dogs up for success. Avoid face to face greeting and any greeting with tension in the leash. If your dog has shown reactivity toward other dogs in the past make sure your dog has been well-exercised before any necessary introductions.
On the day your dogs will meet scent swap the dogs by taking a towel and wiping each dog’s mouth and then their bottom (bum/lift tail and wipe) and then exchange towels and wipe the towel on your dog’s neck and shoulder, both sides. We want the dogs when they do finally meet to pause and quietly say to one another “I’ve think we met before” and only exchange pleasantries like polite society.
Structure introductions to take place in a new environment that is neutral territory. (not someplace your dog frequents or walks) If we choose a stimulating environment the dogs are more likely to be interested in exploring it and less focused on the other dog. Start with parallel walking at a distance both dogs can maintain some level of self-control. Keep both dogs on the outside of the humans and all walking the same direction. We want the dogs to focus on walking straight ahead and not the other dog. If a dog pulls to get to the other just pull (guide/no jerking) them back to your side and keep walking and the faster the pace the better.
If the dogs get to a point where they are showing no interest in the other dog for a good amount of time we can move the parallel walking a bit closer but not so close either dog lose their mind and become reactive. This can require a long, long walk with some dogs. If both dogs continue to ignore the other dog we can continue to walk a little closer until eventually we get to a converging path if both dogs are still under control, non-reactive and still walking on the outside of the humans. When doing dog to dog intro’s it’s important that both dogs be well-mannered and under control. If they are not, avoid doing any introductions. This requires both dogs to have good loose leash walking skills. Walking on a Loose Leash
At some point I will stop at an interesting place for the dogs like a group of bushes and permit them free time to sniff the surroundings. Many times after they have explored the bushes or area they will greet briefly before I get everyone focused on walking together again. Keep the greeting very brief, maybe 2-seconds and then get moving again. Walk with purpose. When the dogs have ignored each other for at least 30-seconds you can find another interesting place for them to stop and explore. I would continue this until they are good at ignoring one another and focused on walking and exploring. It’s important that we don’t misinterpret “no reaction” as “calm”, “comfortable” or “confident.” There is a big difference between a dog that approaches another with a soft fluid body and a look of relaxation, and another who slowly, cautiously or tensely moves toward another.
Once the dogs are truly comfortable and/or ignoring one another only then would I consider taking them inside a home together. But before taking the dogs into a home (or business) remove anything a dog may consider theirs; e.g. water and food bowls, bed, toys, etc… If their are two dogs in total place 3 new water and food bowls down preferably ones that are different from the one the dog was previously eating using. (I prefer stainless steel bowls) If at all possible place the new bowls in a different location even if its only a couple feet from the old location. Do the same with beds If two dogs, place 3 beds down neither dog has used before. We don’t want any dog to start a new conversation with the words “mine” which can start a conflict. If introducing new toys follow the 50-300 rule.
Only after the dogs are still exercising self-control would I walk them into the home (or business) and attempt to manage any interactions keeping them brief. Now review the page on Multi-Dog homes for more guidance.