Instructions
Introduce the dogs in a neutral location. Dogs are territorial and may see the new dog as a rival or intruder. A neutral location circumvents a potential source of conflict.
Place both dogs on a leash during the initial introduction. Ask a family member or friend to control one of the dogs while you control the other. Allow the dogs to briefly sniff one another, and stay alert for signs of aggressive behavior such as deep growling and prolonged stares. Sniffing is a natural instinct that dogs use to acquaint themselves with one another.
Take the dogs for a walk. Avoid walking the dogs side-by-side. Ask your friend or family member to walk behind or in front of you with one of the dogs. Walk in a single file, with one dog behind the other.
Reward both dogs with positive reinforcement techniques. Pay attention to both dogs, speaking in a warm and reassuring voice, and give each one a treat. If one of them acts aggressively, say "stop" with a firm and commanding voice. Pay attention to the body language and posture of the dogs. A good sign is a "play bow" -- a dog crunches his front feet in a forward position while raising his back end. This indicates that the dog is interested in playing with the other one.
Help the dogs to relax. Talk calmly to the dogs and massage their backs with long reassuring strokes. Both dogs may be tense and stressed out at the first meeting, and helping them calm down reduces the emotional intensity and uncertainties.
Keep the dogs in separate locations at your home. Allow them to gradually become accustomed to one another in the home environment. Keep them in crates or separate rooms, and gradually increase their time together.
How to Bring a New Dog Home to Existing Dogs
Introducing a new dog to the family dog can lead to unpleasant results if the introduction is rushed and not done properly. Dogs are guided by instinct, and one of the strongest is to protect their territory and sense of space. In addition to their natural instincts, dogs also have individual personalities that influence the way they interact with one another. Patience and careful observation are the keys to successfully introducing a new dog to the family pet. Because dogs are pack animals, they naturally pay attention to and follow their leader. It is important that both dogs regard you as the leader of the pack.