How to Introduce New Dogs

When introducing two dogs for the first time, go slow! A rushed or high-energy meeting can lead to tension, conflict, or even fights. Think of this process like meeting a new coworker—you wouldn’t want them invading your personal space or asking personal questions the moment you arrive. Dogs benefit from the same kind of structured, low-pressure approach when meeting for the first time.

Steps for a Successful Dog Introduction 

✅ Start in a Neutral Space 

• Choose a location neither dog considers home to reduce territorial behavior.
• A quiet park, an open field, or a calm street work well.

✅ Use Parallel Walks

• Walk the dogs at least 15 feet apart (30 feet is even better). 

• This allows them to observe each other without pressure.

• Gradually decrease the distance only if both dogs remain relaxed. 

✅ Incorporate Figure 8 Patterns

• Walk around cars, trees, or bushes, letting the dogs briefly lose sight of each other and then reappear.
• This prevents fixation and helps them process the new presence calmly.

✅ Encourage Sniffing the Environment

• Let the dogs explore their surroundings on long lines attached to a harness.
• Sniffing is calming and allows them to learn about each other indirectly.

✅ Allow Gradual, Short Exposures

• Dogs naturally prefer to approach from the side and sniff each other’s rear to gather information in a non-threatening manner.
• If both dogs appear comfortable, let the less excitable dog approach first.
• Encourage and reward calm behaviors such as sniffing, loose body language, and polite interactions.
• Keep initial meetings short, especially with young puppies—slow progress is better than a bad first impression!

✅ Take Your Time & Monitor Interactions

• Some dogs need multiple short exposures before feeling comfortable with a new companion.
• Allow them to take their time rather than rushing the process.
• If tension builds or interactions escalate, separate them calmly—don’t scold or force them to continue.

What to Avoid

❌ Forcing an Interaction – If the dogs don’t seem interested, let them observe instead of pushing them to engage.

❌ Tight Leashes & Tension – If either dog is pulling, increase distance before trying again.

❌ Ignoring Signs of Discomfort – Stiff body language, lip licking, or avoidance means they need more time.

❌ Correcting Growling or Warnings – Growling is communication. Punishing it can suppress signals and lead to unpredictable reactions later.