B efore adding a dog or puppy to your home, please consider your current pets’ feelings about dogs. If you know your current dog is aggressive toward other dogs you may want to reconsider. Or, if your cat is terrified of dogs, you will want to decide if introducing a dog to the family is fair to your cat(s). If you simply don’t know what your existing animals’ feelings are about dogs you can do some controlled experimentation. How does your dog act when it sees the neighborhood dogs while on a walk? How does your cat react when a friend brings her dog over for a visit?

If you have cats, you will want to follow the advice given in the section titled Introducing a New Cat or Kitten to a Home with Other Animals. This will keep your cat(s) safe and less stressed.

If you are introducing dogs already living in the household to a new dog or puppy the general rule is this: hold the first meeting on neutral territory.

What is neutral territory? It’s a place where your dog will not feel inclined to protect its turf. Something new to both dogs is best. Neither will have the advantage of having marked the territory and both will likely be interested in checking out the new smells as well as each other. Heartland Humane Society has rooms as well as outdoor areas designed specifically for these first meetings. Talk with the shelter staff about setting up this meeting.

Similar to the personalities of people, some dogs’ personalities simply do not mesh well. If your current dog is typically great with other dogs but can’t seem to connect in a positive way with your perspective dog or puppy, don’t despair. You may need to explore the possibility of finding a better match. Shelters have an abundance of dogs and you are sure to find the right fit for you and your dog.

Some tips for introducing dogs:
Keep the dogs on leash at first. However, keep the line loose and give lots of positive reinforcement for good behavior.
Keep your own emotions in check. They will pick up on any anxiety you may be feeling.
Keep treats or other rewards coming for good behavior.
Show your dog that you accept, trust and like the new dog by being the first to greet the new dog.

Remember the basics of positive reinforcement and reward each animal for his or her excellent behavior.

If you feel your pet is behaving aggressively, please refer to the aggressive behavior link for more tips.

Your ultimate goal is to keep all of your pets safe and happy. Take your time and use good judgment. If you are still having problems, please feel free to call us at 541-752-9000 or send an e-mail.