How to introduce a new dog?
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| Mary Anne, I'm not sure what to tell you about adding Mika; was just so nice to "see" you again - had to say hi!! I'm really sorry about your husband. Kristine |
| Neutral ground is the key. Take Fitz to a location away from your home but somewhere he is familiar with. Then slowly introduce the little guy. I'd start by casually and almost by coincidence walk the little one by on a sidewalk across the street where Fitz will certainly see him. Gauge what to do after seeing Fitz's reaction. If he seems to not care. Bring the little guy closer, within speaking distance of the handlers, but keep the talking to a minimum; this is for the dogs, not the people. If Fitz sees the little guy and goes the least bit bonkers you'll have to make several more passes until Fitz gets used to seeing him. At this point, you should be realizing the this will take time - probably lots of time. If Fitz is too 'jumpy', bringing a new dog in may not be such a good idea. Be ready for the fact that he simply may not be ready and someone else may need to help out and take the little guy until you can get Fitz sorted out. I'm not trying to be course or mean, just realistic. We've gone through this twice, once with a very dog-aggressive Sheepie and it worked both times so I do know it can happen. Good luck and keep us in the loop! Vance |
also try walking them side by side at a fairly brisk pace...this helps a lot You should also get a sturdy gate so they can nose to nose . I would crate the small guy when you are not home in another room Just to be safe It may take awhile I hope they end up being best friends  |
| I've heard exactly what Cindy said. Walk them briskly side by side. Recently I learned it can help if they are both tired when they first meet. If you can wear the dogs out before the walk it could help. |
Thank you all for the responses! Mika is here now, she arrived five days ago. We introduced Fitz and Mika while going for a walk, which worked very well, both dogs being intent upon their walk. Of course their leashes tangled at one point, and Fitz had a conniption like the world was ending (he's just a bit dramatic) but no harm done. In the house, though, it's not quite as easy. Fitz is unsure and growly, and Mika is a bit of a spitfire herself, so I'm cautiously keeping them separated. We have a bit of time at bedtime, before cratetime, when they both lie on the bed, nice and quiet and relaxed, no drama, so that's a good sign. I think - no, I know - that this is going to take a lot of patience and time. But I know - no, I think - that I'm up for it.  And hello Kristine - it's been awhile, nice to be back! |
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