How long does it take for a dog to adjust to a second dog?
Tristin Veum
2025-07-11 22:56:13
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: 22
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. It's just a matter of an owner setting expectations and being consistent. No two dogs will have the same relationship. 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. Be patient as each dog's adaptation process varies, and monitor body language to ensure the dogs feel comfortable with each other. You may never be able to trust these two dogs alone together, and that's OK. 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.
Rylee Friesen
2025-07-02 05:41:13
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: 17
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. Luckily, you can help him adjust to his new companion if you prepare in advance. If you notice signs of tension, gently redirect the dogs’ attention. If the dogs ignore each other, do not force them to interact, they will get to know each other when they feel comfortable. Once the dogs tolerate each other and interact positively, you may take them home. Begin taking walks together and providing other positive, shared activities while both dogs remain on leash. Keep the dogs separate when you are not at home. Closely supervise them when they play together and praise them when they interact nicely.
Nathanael Jakubowski
2025-06-22 03:29:20
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: 12
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. Just existing together, but sitting on opposite sides of the room, isn’t a good relationship, Phifer says. Even social dogs that seem to get along need supervision or separation via baby gates or crates at home for a few weeks.
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