You want to get a second dog or puppy to provide your existing pet with a friend and company when you are out. This might seem like a good idea initially, but will the reality be as rewarding as the concept? Before going ahead and getting another dog, ask yourself the following questions.
Compatibility
While most dogs are highly social animals, introducing a resident dog to a newcomer is not always as easy as you might imagine it to be. So, it is important to consider your existing dog’s temperament before getting another one. Some breeds do not co-exist well with other dogs, so this is another consideration, especially when it comes to puppy training. If your 2 dogs don’t get on, you may have to organize separate raining sessions for them.
Introducing a second dog
Dogs do not live by the same code of conduct that humans do, so, instead of smiling and shaking hands on first meeting, they may well swear at each other and have a punch-up. As this would not start the relationship off on the right footing, careful introductions are essential so that this situation does not occur.
Bonding
Some dogs bond so closely that the owner is left out of the equation – not a good situation especially if you are just learning how to train a puppy. To avoid this happening, you will need to separate the dogs if they are left alone for any length of time, either during the day while you are at work, or at night. Do this by means of a mesh partition or a stair gate so they can still keep each other company, but can’t play together unless you are there to supervise them. So that the dogs won’t feel entirely ‘abandoned’ during the day, give them something to occupy their time alone such as activity toys, or have someone come in to give them attention, to take them for a walk, and just to let them outside to relieve themselves. It is also a good idea to regularly take each dog out separately, so that you can devote your attention to each one singly. The new dog will learn to be confident when out alone, and not to rely on the other dog for support.
Bringing Your New Pet Home
Do
Expect integration to take some time.
Allow the dogs to investigate each other at their own pace without distractions.
Feed the dogs separately to begin with.
Give the new dog his own bed and toys to minimize disagreements over possessions.
Initially, reinforce the existing dog’s position as leader of the canine ‘pack’ by favoring him first when playing, feeding, giving attention and allowing him to go through doorways first.
Don’t
Interfere in the natural process of the dogs sorting out the hierarchy between themselves in the first couple of weeks – unless they actually begin to fight. If it becomes obvious that the new dog has taken control, you will have to reinforce his rank by putting the new dog first in everything instead.
Aggravate a situation between the dogs during the settling-in period; for example, shut them in separate rooms to fuss and give them treats.
Lift (in the case of small dogs) one dog above the other; by doing so, you will give the underdog a height advantage that can trigger the top dog into aggression.
Leave the dogs together until you are certain they have become friends.