Ask Simba!
Hi! We want to adopt a second dog. Our first dog likes to play with other dogs but we want to make sure, both of them will get along fine. What is the best way to make sure they will like each other? And should we treat the new dog differently than our first dog?
Sandy from Lake Forest
| Dear Sandy: The first step is to determine if your dog is doing better with a male or a female dog. Many people prefer a male/female pair (in that case, make sure that at least one of them is neutered/spayed or read up on how to keep the dogs separated when the female is in heat). Once you decided on your new dog, introduce them at a neutral place like a public park. Let them smell each other and go for a walk together. Once home, let them establish the pack order as long as they are not violent. It is very well possible that the new dog will take over. Do not force an artificial pack order. Remember that even two dogs need ample exercise. |