How to help dogs bond with each other?

1. First impressions are importantA friend or other family member is needed for this crucial first step, each of you handling a different dog. 2. You’ll want to introduce the dogs to each other in a neutral territory, so choose a place your existing dog doesn’t normally walk or play, such as a dog park you haven’t visited before. 3. Take a long walk togetherKeeping the humans between the dogs on a long walk after their time together in a dog park is the next step to creating a successful multi-dog family. 4. Establishing who is the bossNot all dogs are alpha dogs, sometimes the current dog will happily allow the newcomer to take over as the boss, once he is established in the home. 5. Be sure to feed dogs separately, preferably in crates or in different rooms. 6. Identify stressorsIf one dog’s stressor isn’t the other dog, then recognizing what is will help immensely in calming a disquieting environment. 7. Increase exerciseExercised dogs are happy dogs, not only does it act as a release for energy, but exercise also releases endorphins and norepinephrine, “feel good” chemicals that make your dog happier. 8. You are what you eatConsider what you’re feeding your dog, poor quality protein interferes with his ability to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep.

When kittens and puppies are young, they are naturally very sociable and are happy exploring and discovering new things; they will probably accept that making friends with a puppy or a kitten can be fun and there is nothing to fear. Some breeds of dogs are born to chase other animals - for example a hunting dog's inherent behaviour is to chase smaller animals, including cats. If you are adopting an older animal and bringing it into your home, try and check where they have lived before and if there were other pets in their previous home. You should have resources for each animal, including different food, bowls, toys and their own safe space that they can retreat to should they feel the need. Make introductions gradually. When you are confident they are both actually ready to meet up close, keep your dog on a lead so that you can control them if things don't go according to plan. Let them meet on common ground, away from their own territory. Keep contact times calm at all times and remember to reward them for being nice to each other. Use FELIWAY and ADAPTIL to help support both your dog and cat to feel comfortable in the home and together.