How do you know if your dog will accept another dog?

To determine if your dog will accept another dog, observe how your dog behaves when other dogs visit your home. Sometimes your dog shows no signs of resentment and aggression when interacting with other dogs on a walk or at the park. But, if the same dog were to visit your home and play with your dog’s toy, it might upset him. Does your dog like the company of other dogs, if your dog enjoys human company, it doesn’t mean he will enjoy another dog’s company as well. If your dog gets aggressive or anxious in the presence of other dogs, you might reconsider adopting another dog as a companion for him. Does your dog seem depressed after a play date, if he seems cool and laid back, then he’s probably fine on his own, if he seems a bit off and depressed, you may want to look into getting another dog as he misses that social time with a canine friend.

Dogs are inherently social animals that live well together in groups, but that does not mean that all dogs get along. Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced. He may not like sharing his territory, toys, food, resting places, or humans. Before choosing a new dog, think about what type will fit in with your existing family members – both two- and four-legged. Dogs equally matched for size are less likely to accidentally injure each other while playing. Is your current dog physically able to interact with a pup or would an older, calmer dog be a better canine friend? Introduce the two dogs on neutral ground, to avoid territorial aggression, introduce the dogs in a place that is new to both. Observe their body language and posture to pick up on signs of tension: stiff posture, tucked tail, or growls, for example. If you notice these signs, gently redirect the dogs’ attention.

Your Dog is a Fan of Other Dogs If your current pup loves other dogs, it’s generally a good sign they’ll benefit from having another furry friend in the house. Highly anxious, nervous, or aggressive dogs are probably not the best candidates for adding another dog into the mix. But, each dog is different. Even if your pup is the best around other dogs, they may not get along with a particular dog. So, always be sure to take it slow and be patient when introducing potential new fur siblings. Dogs that exhibit relaxed, playful body language during playtime at the dog park are more likely to get along with a new furry friend at home. Your Current Pup is Well Trained Even if you have a younger dog at home, a well trained pup is likely to mesh better with another pup. They Know How to Share Some dogs can be possessive or protective of their toys or food. Every dog is different and if you take your time to find the right second pup for your family, it’ll make the transition much easier. And, make sure to be patient when introducing two new dogs – not every dog is going to get along with another pup right away.

If you have an old dog, they may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup. Dogs with similar energy levels make the best companions. Some breeders suggest that opposite-sex dogs get along best. Read up on dog body language, so you recognize what your dogs are telling you and each other. When a new puppy or dog comes into the house, let the dogs interact safely with the use of a crate or pen. During this process, watch for stiff posture, lip lifting, and staring — behaviors that can precede growling and snapping. If you see these warning signs, give the dogs a break before trying again. First, introduce the dogs when they’re on-leash in a neutral place. Let another adult handle one of the dogs, and make sure both dogs are on short, loose leashes. Take the dogs for a walk along a different route than your dog is used to. Next, if the dogs seem interested and fairly calm, let them walk up to each other. Let them sniff each other. Verbally praise a good interaction, and keep the leashes loose. After a few seconds, distract them with treats and redirect their attention back to you. Your older dog may correct your puppy with a growl or snap from time to time. This is how adult dogs teach puppies social skills. Your job is to supervise so that things don’t get out of hand. Reward your dog when he shows tolerance for the puppy. If your dog doesn’t move away, growl, or snap when the puppy lies down next to him, say “Yes” and reward with a treat.