You have a pet and it makes you so happy; you understand each other so well, you are so much a part of each other’s lives, that you think the time has come to expand the family and get a second pet. Congratulations! Without a doubt, this is one of the most generous and wonderful decisions you can make, especially if the ARISTODOG who is coming to complete your home is adopted.
It is clear that the first step toward getting a second pet is deciding that you want one. Just as with children. But it is natural for doubts to arise, especially regarding how your veteran dog will react. The one who was once king of the house may not want to share his kingdom with anyone else, may become jealous, may... He could react in a thousand different ways. That is why it is best to be prepared and have some basic knowledge of how to handle this integration process. Let’s look at it step by step.
If it is a puppy:
1. During the first few days, avoid showing too much attention to the new dog, especially in the presence of the older pet; this will help keep jealousy at bay.
2. Play with both pets to encourage integration. However, start the game with the older one so that it continues to feel important.
3. Find a good time for both pets to meet. If they are both puppies, it will of course be easier, because instinctively they will want to start playing.
4. If either pet growls at the other or its fur stands on end, you must make it very clear that fighting will not be allowed.
5. If you have a female pet, she will be more accepting of the other since females are more maternal, and the adjustment will be much easier.
6. It is also very important to prevent the new pet from invading the other’s sacred spaces, such as its food bowl or bed.
7. They generally have a lot of energy, so keep an eye on the new arrival to make sure it does not pester your first pet excessively, since it may not have as much energy and may be bothered by so much activity.
If it is an adult dog:
As a general tip, it is recommended that you be more careful. Keep in mind that both dogs already have established personalities. And that the veteran dog had assumed its role as master and ruler of the house.
1. To help make the introduction less intrusive, try to have it take place on neutral ground, such as a park or another open space.
2. Ideally, enlist the help of another person so that each of you can hold one of the dogs.
3. If you do it at home, the best way to avoid altercations is to look after them and keep them separated during the first few days. Let them sniff each other through a door.
4. Gradually encourage them to meet and, above all, prevent them from fighting. Do not allow either of them to try to dominate the other.
5. Keep in mind that two adult ARISTODOGS may go through an extensive ritual of posturing, sniffing, touching, and even urinating. After this, one or both may simply choose to ignore the other, but do not worry if one growls a little or tries to dominate the “newcomer.” You should try to let them establish their relationship with as little interference from you as possible.
6. Remember that your first dog has established routines, so respect them: walks, meals, and playtime should all take place at the usual times. This will help your veteran dog avoid feeling that there is “a before and an after” in its life.
It is normal to be a little worried about how everything will go when a new dog arrives at home, but we assure you that it is not as difficult as it may seem. If there is love and mutual respect, it is only a matter of days before everything is perfect!