Tips and Best Practices to Help Dogs Get Along

October 3, 2022 | Posted at 4:06 pm | by Samantha (Follow User)

Dogs are like human beings. They have their personality, preferences, and dislikes. They are moody, sometimes happy and others grumpy. Indeed: just like humans. No matter how many training sessions you do, each dog has its character and it won’t change. Different dog breeds have different tastes. Which is why they don’t always get along with each other. Real life isn’t the 100 Dalmatians or Lily and the Tramp. 

 

Sometimes, two dogs don’t get along. They can be siblings or complete strangers. They can also be friends who, due to a trigger, start arguing. When it happens, it’s scary, almost as scary as deciding to buy USDT. Luckily, there are things you can do and you can learn how to make dogs get along. Dog training might not be enough. Instead, you should always be ready. 

How to introduce two dogs

 

Nice and easy, slow and with patience. And that’s only the first step. Whether it’s your Pomeranian or your friend’s Husky, it takes time to introduce two dogs. First, if one is on the leash, the other should be too. If one is loose, so should be the other. Why? Because this creates an even field, where no one has the advantage. The ideal setting is an enclosed space like a spacious room or a fenced park and garden, where the two dogs can move freely, sniff each other, and (if needed) find their safe distance. 

 

In this setting, you should also find your safe spot. Instead of entering the dogs’ space, leave them room to breathe and move. In fact, your presence might feel menacing to the dog you don’t know. However, for the first encounter, make sure you aren’t too far away, so you can always provide a safety blanket to your dog. It’s about finding the right space. 

 

Still, don’t let the two animals get up to each other’s noses right away. Start from afar to check their reactions. Then, slowly approach each other. At the first signal of dislike, simply walk back and repeat the action. Dogs don’t hide their feelings. So, if you see them getting along without issues, you can safely let them play. Indeed: slow and steady. But what if they don’t get along?

How to make dogs get along: what to do

 

Two dogs might be disciplined, thanks to dog training. Unfortunately, this is no guarantee they will get along with each other. The factors that affect this reaction are: age, gender, and temperament. For example, two big male dogs might both be dominant. Or a puppy wants to play, while the older dog simply wants to chill. Perhaps it’s two females, who might compete for attention. The scenarios are endless and you need to know what to do, independently from the dog breeds. 

 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind, especially if the introduction didn’t work: 

 

  • Use treats to train them separately, teaching them the “leave it” command so they drop their behavior. This way, a simple “leave it” can help separate the two animals. 
  • Socialization is key. Walk them side-by-side, perhaps with the help of your partner or a friend. Exercise lowers their energy and it allows them to have a common goal. 
  • Keep their foods separate, making sure they don’t go near each other’s bowls. Also, keep their toys separate.In fact, jealousy can be a powerful force. 

What not to do 

 

They growl at each other, they fight, and they are always on high alert. Here’s what not to do: 

 

  • Don’t panic. If they start fighting, your stress and panic can only make the situation worse. Instead, spray them with water to separate them. Make sure they get away from each other. 
  • Socialization. Separating them creates distinct territories and the dogs will fight for control. If the two animals live in the same home, make sure they are able to get around. They will be able to establish boundaries. 
  • Don’t give any type of rewards after the fight like treats or caresses. Otherwise, it reinforces their behavior. 

 

So, you’ve done it all. You tried everything. And the dogs still don’t get along. The truth is, sometimes dogs will never get along and that’s ok. It simply means they can’t be together and you should find your dog a new playmate. If the dogs are siblings, then make sure you find a safe place for them, away from each other. Sometimes, things aren’t meant to be. Both for humans and for dogs.