New dog not getting along old dog two dogs not getting along is a common scenario. This problem occurs in the case of humans too. It’s like a natural problem. But, like any problem, this one can also be sorted, with just a little help from you.
So, what to do when new dog not getting along old dog? Dogs are social animals. They are naturally inspired to keep good contact with everyone. There can be a feud between your dogs for some reason. But, two dogs can become good friends with some help from your side. Here are some tips and steps you should follow to improve the bonding between your dogs.
New Dog Not Getting Along Old Dog – 6 Easiest Ways To solve
1. Introducing The Dogs
The introduction is a crucial part that impacts the behavior of your dogs towards each other. And this is the part where most people make the first mistake.
Here is the proper way to introduce dogs to each other:
- You should make sure that your dogs meet at a neutral location. If you bring the new dog directly to your home, the old dog might think of him as an intruder.
- Go on a long walk with both your dogs. Take one more person with you. Make sure that you have a short leash on both. Always go for walks in neutral territory.
- Ensure your dominance. You must make sure that you are the boss. They have to listen to your commands. Only then, you’ll be able to keep them under control.
- If the territory is familiar to one of the dogs, it might show dominance over the other dog. And if the other dog does not follow through, the dominant dog will fight for it.
2. Keep Some Distance Between The Dogs At First
There is a common misconception between people that if we keep the dogs close to each other, they’ll get along quicker. Sadly, this is not the same in all cases. Forcing the dogs to be together all the time is not healthy for their behavior. They might not want to share the same bowl, toys, and bed. Like humans, dogs also need some time to get used to a stranger.
Give the dogs as much time and space they need to get used to the situation. Otherwise, the old one will most probably feel threatened and jealous of each other. Always keep both the dogs separated while eating, training, or sleeping. Give them food in two different rooms. Train them separately in different schedules.
Once you feel like they are getting along, you may try feeding them in the same place and training them together. Be assured that they will soon get along. It’s just a matter of respect and privacy. Keep the dogs separated for a few weeks, as we mentioned, and they’ll start to respect each other’s privacy.
3. Establish Dominance
Dogs are naturally packed animals. Every pack has a leader, even dogs. In every group, there is an alpha. The alpha animal dominates and leads all the other members of the group. Every dog in the pack will compete and fight each other to become the alpha. That is an obvious case whenever a new dog gets into the group.
Interestingly, the dogs consider you and your family as a part of the pack as well. Therefore, you must take the alpha position in the group. You must ensure that they obey you. And when you have redeemed yourself as the leader, the dogs won’t fight among themselves for the alpha position anymore.
Don’t worry; they will never fight you because you are their guardian. You feed them, shelter them, and take care of them. They will always obey you and stay loyal to you.
4. Training
Train your dog to be obedient. This training will ensure that your dog follows what you say anywhere and anytime. Teach your dogs words like “sit” and “stay.” Teaching these commands to your dog is very helpful when he’s trying to chase another dog or animal or when he is furious, and there are chances of him hurting another dog.
This training is standard, but it takes time to be perfect. It is a training where you teach the dog manners and self-control. Although it takes a lot of time and effort, the results are promising.
5. Treat Your Dogs Equally
People often tend to give the new puppy more attention and love compared to the old one. That is a huge mistake. This action of yours will make the old dog furious and jealous of the new one, which may result in a fight.
If you don’t want any of your dogs to get hurt, simply treat them the same way. Make sure to give equal attention, food, toys, and love to both the dogs. Play with both of them in equal parts. If they get along, play with them and train them both at once.
6. It Takes Time, Be Patient
How much time do you need to get along and understand a stranger? Maybe a few hours, a few days, or even a few weeks. Similarly, dogs also need time to get along. If your dogs are too friendly, they might get along within a few minutes. It might even take a month. That depends on the personalities.
If the dogs have similar personalities and characteristics, they will get along very quickly. If they are of the opposite breed and nature, it might take some time to become friends. Don’t worry, give them their time and space, and be patient; they will eventually get along someday.
Why Does My Dog Rub His Body On Me
This is one of the more exciting dog behaviors. Some of the most common reasons for dogs rubbing or bumping up against humans include:
Opportunity: Dogs are territorial by nature so they may see you as a possible threat or rival. They may approach you and begin rubbing on you when they feel threatened.
Arousal: Dogs sometimes rub against one another when greeting each other; this action is a normal part of their friendly behavior. If your dog rubs against you this way, it’s a sign that he’s just showing affection for you.
Displacement Behaviour: Your dog may be feeling anxious or fearful, and rubbing on you is his way to relieve excess energy and calm down.
Pheromones: When dogs rub against something or someone, their body secretes pheromones. These chemicals mark objects and people as “friendly” or a part of the pack.
Calming Effect: If a dog rubs against you in this way, he is asking for comfort if he’s feeling anxious or under stress.
Tips On How To Make Two Dogs Become Friends
Every dog owner knows what it’s like to get two dogs and not know how to make them friends. Here are some tips on how you can achieve this.
- Start by giving them treats. The easiest way to do this is to offer the same treatment, like a piece of meat or a large cheese.
- Teach them that you will give them the same treatment and when they look at you, say “give me” and then pet both dogs simultaneously.
- When you see them getting along, reward them for cooperating by tossing treats on the ground, and both dogs will fight for your favor by being nice to each other.
- If you have underfed your dogs, then it is also a good idea to give them regular meals. Sometimes one of the dogs will be left with some food, which will prompt them to become friends.
- When you see that both your dogs have become friends, make sure they don’t have enough food or space by mixing them up in their cages by bringing the new dog into the old one’s cage.
Introduce The Dogs To Each Other Properly
Introduce both dogs at once, then take them away and bring back just one at a time. Once they’ve had the chance to sniff each other out of curiosity, play with them briefly before letting them go back off on their own; eventually, they should learn that they’re allowed to play together without supervision.
For example: “Here, meet the new guy,” I say as I pull out a wiggly pup that wants to chase those long ears. “And now, you’re old enough to have a friend.” I’ll keep a close eye on the dogs while they play with each other and when they start getting along well and are no longer interested in sniffing each other out, I’ll send them off on their own. Then I can go back and play with the other one.
Keep The Dogs Separated At First
It is important because it gives the dog a chance to get used to living inside, learn that there aren’t any howling intruders, and get used to being crated, all without worrying about how things might work out if he accidentally makes enemies with one of your other dogs.
At first, I keep the new dog in a large wire crate with his toys and a blanket. I make it easy on him, so he doesn’t have to climb stairs or walk far to the potty.
On the first day, I let both dogs sniff each other under supervision, and then they’ll play while I work with one of them a bit before putting them back in their separate places. They can see each other but can’t get into trouble.
Supervise All Interactions Between The Dogs
The next step is letting the dogs get along and play together. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t fight, and ensure they’re okay while they get to know each other. Don’t let them out of their crates for a few days, so they stay in nice little quarters, but starting to play with each other will give them the chance to become friends.
Once they get to know each other’s natural behavior and pattern of play, letting them out of their crates by themselves. It’s not unusual for two dogs to become friends this way; once they’re comfortable. Gently introduce them and observe them as they begin to play together.
Give Each Dog Equal Attention
As you play with each dog separately, pay equal attention and reward them equally. Suppose one dog gets mad or jealous, praise and reward the other just as much. The important thing is not to let anyone get jealous or upset.
It’s also important to do different things with the dogs, like buy them different toys or take them on walks, because they might use this as the opportunity to start fighting or picking on each other. This might take some time, but eventually, they’ll begin to get along and like each other.
Introducing A New Dog To A Jealous Dog
If you’re looking to introduce a new dog into your household, it’s essential to do so correctly. If your dog is the only member of the pack and is not used to sharing his space, he may experience some jealousy when a new dog joins the family. To help him make a smooth transition, here are three simple steps:
- Introduce the dogs slowly. If your dog is not used to meeting other dogs on a regular basis, don’t just throw him in with the new dog. Instead, have someone walk the new dog around your yard while you take your dog outside to be with him.
- Avoid competition when they are first introduced. Avoid playing tug of war, throwing balls, or chasing each other until they’re comfortable. The only competition you can submit at this stage will be on a long leash and with the help of a human.
- Playtime with the new dog should first be limited to five minutes. Start slowly with no more than five minutes, then go up to 15 minutes and then 20 minutes, increasing at a rate of five minutes per week until both dogs are comfortable being near each other for longer.
- If the dog develops an adverse reaction, there are many ways to make him more comfortable. Giving him a treat after he seems okay may break the relationship with the new dog.
Final Words
The friendship nature of dogs and humans are not that different. Both almost work in the same way. Like humans, dogs want privacy and respect too. All they need is a little supervision and help from you.
I hope now you know what to do when new dog not getting along old dog. This article discussed what you should do and follow to create friendship between your dogs. We hope you found it helpful!
FAQs
1.What Can You Do To Help The Old And The New Dogs Get Along?
Ans: Adjusting a household routine can be tiring, too, so start by scaling back on how long you spend with the new pup. As you gradually introduce your canine friends, ensure both dogs have had their vaccinations.
2.What Are The Signs Of An Aggressive Dog?
Ans: Aggressive dog behavior can range from snapping at strangers or growling at other animals to biting and causing serious injury.
3.Why Lovebirds Make Good Pets And How To Care For Them?
Ans: They make good pets because they’re easy to care for, and most of them come in an abundance of different colors. They require lots of attention, and professional cleaning and regular feeding are necessary.
4.What Would You Do When Your Dog Knuckles?
Ans: Pinch your dog’s skin between thumb and forefinger to bring your hand back up. Keep hold of its tail as you kneel or sit down until the snout starts to come up, then release it so that you can grab it by the ear or upper lip as soon as possible.
5. How To Prevent Puppies From Peeing In Their Sleep?
Ans: Get a big dog crate with wire flooring. Line the bottom of the container with an absorbent material like an old towel or paper towels.
