How long should it take for 2 dogs to get along?
Angelita DuBuque
2025-06-22 06:33:15
Count answers: 12
A slow and steady introduction is the best way to create a strong and appropriate foundation for their friendship. The key to success is letting the dogs tell their handlers when they feel comfortable bridging the distance, which is why understanding dog body language is so important. 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. A smooth introduction might require several parallel walking sessions before both dogs are calm enough to get closer. The goal is to gradually close the distance between the two dogs until they can walk side by side. Eventually, both parties should be able to close the gap completely so the dogs can greet and sniff each other.
Cielo Keebler
2025-06-22 05:58:36
Count answers: 10
It may take several weeks for the two dogs to get used to each other, so patience is required. But most of the time, dogs are accepting of other dogs, often welcoming the companionship. Your current dog and your new dog could become best friends within a few days. Or, they might simply learn to live with one another after many, many months. Chances are, your dogs will fall somewhere in the middle. Though many dogs can eventually be left alone together, you should not let this happen for a long time, at least the first few months. Be patient as each dog's adaptation process varies, and monitor body language to ensure the dogs feel comfortable with each other. No two dogs will have the same relationship. If things are not going well, it doesn't mean it never will, just take it back a step and be patient.
Jacey Hintz
2025-06-22 01:40:03
Count answers: 14
There isn’t research for dogs, as there is for cats, that show how long it takes dogs to adjust to each other. Phifer, however, says that two to four weeks is usually enough time to know if dogs can be friends. During the adjustment period, you want to see these behaviors: Fewer grumpy moments, More frequent play or interaction, Mutual grooming or cuddling. But if the dogs merely tolerate each other or avoid each other, then that reflects a bad match. Wood says she typically knows within two minutes if dogs make a good match. Even social dogs that seem to get along need supervision or separation at home for a few weeks.
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