Introducing a New Dog to Your Current Pooches

How old is your dog?

Pre-Puppy

What’s better than puppies? That’s right: your own puppy. So, what do you need to know before you take the plunge into pet parenthood?

0-2 months

Welcome to the world little one. It’s all grow-grow-grow for your puppy right now, so there’s many things to prepare.

2-3 months

Your puppy is ready to come home and turn your world upside down. It’s time to put your preparation into practice – and remember to take it all in!

3-6 months

You’re entering a period of immense growth, lots of learning and new adventures. Bring on the play date with the big wide world!

6-12 months

Your fur-baby is nearing adulthood. Can you see their grown self coming through? Sigh…they grow up so fast, don’t they?

12-18 months

Your puppy has turned one and they might not be so little anymore. Make sure to book their first annual check-up.

18 months - 3 years

Your dog is one an established family member now. Enjoy who they have become and the bond you now share at this special stage.

3 - 8 years

Your dog is a full-grown adult now. They understand where their place is in your home and the wider world.

8+ years

Just like many senior citizens, senior dogs have some extra needs. Learn to look after your best friend and support their health as they grow older.

Just like humans, dogs have unique personalities and suppose you are considering bringing a new dog into your home. You will need to make sure you introduce them with minimal issues.

An easy process to introduce a new dog to your pack.

Before even considering the idea, think about if your dog has ever socialised with other dogs or has had issues. If they have had problems, it may be best to reconsider.

Start on a Weekend

Do the introduction on a weekend when you can spend a few days home with them, you will want to monitor them until you feel comfortable they get along.

Bring the New Dog into your House Alone

Get someone to take your dog on a walk or to the park when you first bring the new dog home. This will give the new dog time to sniff out and get used to the new surroundings.

Meet on Neutral Turf

Always have the first meeting on neutral territory even if you have never seen your dog be territorial before, it’s just better to be safe.

Make sure to make this first meeting fun and playful, plus bring plenty of treats.

Head Home Together

Head back home together and try not to let one dog lead the other. Once you are home, you will want to make sure you keep a close eye on them as they get used to each other being in the same space.

Beware of Territorial Connections to Things

You can either pack away all your dogs toys, treats, food and beds or make sure there is ample amount for both dogs to avoid fights over them. When feeding them for the first few times, you may want to do that in separate rooms as well.

Distract don’t Punish

There is going to be disagreements, and when they arise, you will want to distract each dog with a toy or treat rather than using punishment.

If you punish them, they will then associate the discipline with the other dog.

Reward but avoid Favouritism

As you work towards getting used to the new arrangements, especially settling in a new dog, remember to reward good behaviour. But beware of favouritism as this will cause jealousy issues.