There are three main tips to keep in mind when introducing your new dog or puppy to the family. 

• Take your time. The humans in the household will likely be very excited to get to know your new dog, but it can be overwhelming to meet so many new faces and personalities at once. Give your puppy plenty of time to meet each family member one by one. This will help your puppy settle and create individual bonds with each family member.  
• Let your puppy take the lead. Brush up on what a nervous or happy puppy looks like – if they’re bounding towards you then they’re ready for some fussing but if they’re sniffing around or wriggling away then they need a bit of time. Read their body language and let them set the pace for introductions to keep the situation calm and positive.  
• Remain calm: Your puppy may not understand the difference between excitement and panic, so try to create a calm atmosphere by speaking calmly and avoiding grabbing or sudden movements. This will help generate a peaceful environment in which your puppy can thrive.  

Introducing a new dog or puppy to existing dogs in your household takes a bit more care and patience than introducing them to new humans. Introductions should start on neutral ground with all animals on a leash. Puppies may not be allowed to walk yet, so find an area outside of the household away from other dogs, ideally with plenty of space.  

Using positive reinforcement such as treats and praise for both of your pets, allow them to walk beside each other at a distance, then gradually bring them closer together while watching for signs of aggression or fear.  

Gradually increase the duration and frequency of these interactions as the dogs become more familiar with each other. Be patient and prepared to intervene if necessary. With time, patience, and consistent training, your furry companions will develop strong bonds and become cherished members of the same family group.  

Cats and other animals that are free in your home should be introduced to your new pets slowly. For some pets like Terriers and pet rats, or Greyhounds and rabbits, introductions are not recommended.  

One of the main methods of introducing pets starts with giving your pets separate rooms to live in at first, swapping over scented items like blankets or pillows. Slowly build up the amount of time they’re allowed to interact through a baby gate or similar barrier, eventually allowing them some time to introduce themselves without a barrier.  

Make sure that you’re always there in the beginning to supervise how your pets get on and monitor for any aggressive or aversive behaviour.  

Dogs may not get jealous in the same way that humans do, but they can display behaviours such as attention-seeking or possessiveness. These behaviours often stem from a desire for resources or attention rather than true jealousy.  

Dogs are highly social animals and may exhibit behaviours such as whining or growling when they feel their resources are under threat, or that attention is being diverted to another dog. 

With proper training, attention, and care, dogs can learn to coexist peacefully with other canine companions in the household.  

In the beginning, avoid the animals being left unattended with high value items in case of fights. It may be worthwhile getting doubles of items, or potentially removing the high value items until good relationships are established.