In nature, dogs live together in packs and establish a social structure within the group called the dominance hierarchy. This hierarchy of domination maintains order and reduces conflicts between pack members. Dogs also create territories that they can defend against predators or competitors. These deep-rooted instincts influence your behavior when a new dog appears in your house. A good introduction is essential to the success of the emotional relationship between your dog and his adoptive parent. Grooming is a great way to find out if your regular dogs are getting along with a second dog.
Methods of introduction:
If your home is home to more than one dog, it may be better to alternately introduce the established dogs to a foster family. Two or more dogs may tend to group up with a new baby. This guide will help you learn how to introduce adoptive dogs to their dogs:
Choose a neutral place
A shelter is the ideal place to introduce your dog to his new foster home before taking him home. It is a neutral meeting place, which facilitates the establishment of a good relationship between your dog and the new foster home. Each dog must be cared for by a separate person. Once you have brought a foster family, keep both dogs on a leash and do not leave them together unattended until you see how they will interact in this new environment. The main thing is to take your time and monitor until both animals feel comfortable with each other.
Positive reinforcement
The dogs will probably start their interaction by sniffing each other. Use a light tone of voice to assure them that everything is fine. Keep giving positive reinforcement with tasty treats and soothing voices.
Be aware of body language
Body language is one of the easiest ways to evaluate the course of the interaction. If the ears have fallen out, the tails are bent or stiff, the faces are stiff or the lips are retracted, this is a bad sign. Conversely, if their ears are erect, their tails relaxed and mobile and their faces relaxed, everything looks good! Another good sign is a “play arc” where the dog squats down, placing its front paws on the ground and its hind legs in the air. It is an invitation to play that usually leads to the friendly behavior of the other dog.
What to prepare before bringing an adopted dog to your home
An adoption organization often provides you with services such as:
Information sheet or medical history of a pet
Strap and collar
Medical indications and any food or prescription medication (if necessary)
Identification tags and rabies tags (if applicable)
You will also need a baby cage or a wicket to separate your pet from his permanent dogs.
Determine what belongs to your dog and what belongs to the foster dog
For the first two weeks (sometimes longer), your adopted dog’s life should be simple so that he can acclimatize. Because dogs can be very territorial, it is important to establish what belongs to each dog. Each dog should have separate cages, separate bowls for food and water, and separate toys.
Feed them in different parts of the house
Dogs are especially territorial in food. They can become aggressive if they feel browbeated by another dog stealing food from them. For this reason, it is best to feed the dog and its caregiver in two separate rooms in the house to avoid any food-related conflicts.
