How to Introduce Your Dog to a New Household

Are you an animal lover who loves to have animals around them? Or perhaps you know someone who has animals and you allow them to bring their pets with you while visiting you. What ever the case may be every one is exciting to see the new pet. Just as you would introduce a stranger to your family, the same care should be to introducing a new pet them. It should be taken slowly. You and your family may know what to expect, but the new guest has no idea on what to expect and may be nervous.

Before the introduction is made, prepare everyone ahead of time. If you have children, it may be wise to get children books about dogs and buy them stuffed animals so they can practice how to safely pick up a dog. Teach them that too much rough housing and hugging should be avoided. This may startle the dog and cause them to panic. This can become unsafe for the children and also the dog.

If you are introducing an older dog who has not been around a lot people, or you don't know their background, it's suggested to keep the dog on a leash during the introductions. While family members pet and greet the dog, the dog can be properly secured on a leash. If you notice any sign of aggression such as growling or aggressive barking, contact your vet immediately. Though it could just be a sign of the dog becoming overwhelmed, it is better to be safe than sorry. The veterinarian can suggest a behaviorist for your dog for you to see.

Having your dog meet other pets in the home should not be a hair raising experience either. Each of dogs past experience in socialization is a great determining factor on how much harmony will be in a pet filled household. If you have older dogs in the home, introducing puppies to them usually is not a problem. Older dogs do not see puppies as threats to their territory, therefore making the introduction smoother. You may notice though the older dog barking or swatting at the puppy but this is okay. He is just establishing the pecking order on who has seniority. If you are introducing older dogs, it may be a little more of a challenge. Again, it can also depends on the older dogs background.

It may be best to have the dogs meet on neutral grounds such as the park. The dogs can become better acquainted with each other before you the new dog enters into the old dogs territory. The two dogs may begin to roughly play fight, this should not be alarming unless it is obvious that the other dog is trying to hurt the other dog. If it is just rough housing, the dogs are mainly trying to see who is the dominant dog. When this is established you as the owner should respect who is in the lead. This means you should feed the leader first, greet her first, and even let her out first.

It is very possible to introduce a new dog into a household. Allowing them to explore their new surroundings and the people and animals around them will help them to feel comfortable. You and your family will be thrilled at its new addition.