Knowing how to introduce a new dog into your household is key to a smooth move-in transition. While every dog is different, there are some tried-and-true tips for managing first meetings and keeping both your new pup and existing pets comfortable. Here are some things to remember when introducing a new canine family member:
Before bringing your puppy home, gather and arrange pet items into a single area. It can be a bowl, bones, bed or toys. Make certain the puppy has their own area for everything they need, separate from your other pets.
Cleaning up clutter can help avoid messes and overwhelming your furry friends. You can also use a high baby gate, as it keeps your dogs separated - but still able to communicate - until they get used to one another.
To introduce two dogs, start with a supervised meeting. Watch both dogs’ movements closely, including the way they walk and react to the environment. They might make some aggressive posturing or noises, but if they are not openly hostile, you can give them some time to calmly interact.
Generally, introducing a new dog or puppy to humans is a bit simpler than introducing them to other dogs. Still, it’s important to keep first meetings calm and quiet. It’s also a good idea to allow the new dog a place to retreat if they want their own space.
For other pets like cats, you can try a similar method as you did with introducing dogs. Body language and behavior is crucial at this stage - if you notice any signs of aggression towards a cat or smaller animal, separate them immediately.
Being aware of your own body language and verbal communication during this stage is just as important as being aware of the dog’s. Emphasize positive feedback for calm behavior by keeping your own vocal levels soft and encouraging.
Bringing home a new puppy or dog is an exciting experience. Paying careful attention to how dogs interact with each other and other animals is important for keeping everybody happy and comfortable. Though it will take a few weeks for the new pup to get acclimated, these tips will help you prepare for the process.
As a lifelong resident of Litchfield County, Heather is quite familiar with the beautiful Northwest Corner of Connecticut. In partnership with her husband at Turri, Inc., in Torrington, she managed and grew a 30+ employee electrical contracting firm that served both the residential, commercial and industrial industries. Currently residing in Goshen she hopes to transfer and utilize many of the skills she learned in contracting to the real estate industry.
Knowing how a vital community relies on its volunteers, Heather spent many hours in several capacities at local organizations that she admires. She serves on the Woodridge Lake Finance Committee and House Committee, Victoria Court Condominium Association (secretary) and Educating Canines Assisting with Disabilities (volunteer and nursery mom). Heather has also been involved with Goshen Community Care & Hospice (president of board of directors), Warner Theatre (board of directors), LARC (volunteer), Festival of Trees (founder), the Northwest Chamber of Commerce, and Goshen Business Circle. Heather also served as Vice President of Woodridge Lake’s Board of Directors.
In Heather’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with family usually in an active way by playing tennis, golf, boating, hiking and skiing.
Heather is honored to be a part of the E.J. Murphy team and hopes you will contact her with any of your real estate needs.
