How to properly introduce dogs on leash?

To introduce dogs on leash, have the right gear, such as a martingale collar or harness and a 6-foot leash, and fill your pockets with small, high-value treats to reward moments of calm behavior. The introduction should happen in a large outdoor space that’s neutral to both dogs, meaning neither has “claimed” it by frequent visits or marking. Ideally, this location should have enough space so the dogs can be at least 30 feet apart at first. The first step in the process is for two people to walk the dogs in parallel, keeping them at least 30 feet apart, so they’re aware of one another but not close enough to focus on trying to reach each other. Walk the dogs in the same direction with this wide buffer between them, offering a small treat when each dog looks away from the other and toward their walker. If both dogs appear relaxed and are able to occasionally look up at their handlers, gradually decrease the distance between them while continuing the parallel walking. Avoid a head-on, face-to-face approach, as it’s a stressful and unnatural way for dogs to meet, and instead use parallel walking.

Start on neutral territory where you have plenty of space, like a park, open field, or quiet street. Start on opposite sides of your space walking the same direction. When one dog looks at the other one, they get a treat. Keep walking until they are no longer focused on each other. Repeat your walk and reward method moving about 3-5 feet closer. As long as the dogs continue to pay more attention to you and less attention to the other dog, continue walking. If the dogs become too focused on each other, add more distance until they can successfully walk, take treats, and ignore each other. Slowly decrease the distance until the two humans can walk next to each other with the dogs to the far right and left of them, and can move forward without obsessing over the other dog. Once you’re consistently walking well, allow the dogs to circle and sniff each other for a few seconds then lead them away. Leave the leashes on so you can control both dogs if needed.