Worried about introducing an adult dog to my current dog? Tips!

Question

I want to adopt a new dog. The dog we are looking at adopting is a one year old female. (Pictured) She is smaller than my dog, Callie, but around the same age. She shares Cattle Dog genes like Callie. I’m nervous about how Callie will react to a new dog though, especially with it not being a puppy. Should I be worried about attempting to adopt a “not puppy” aged dog? What tips can you give me to make the transition smoother? What if they end up hating each other? (The black dog my dog Callie.). Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 11 months and 25 days old | 45 lbs

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

What cuties!!! I would honestly be less worried about bringing a friendly adult dog into your house than a puppy because puppies can be overwhelming to adult dogs who are not used to them. They are hyper and jump and bite/chew on adult dogs and some dogs do not respond favorably to this (others are find and will give the puppy warnings or love playing with them). A great option in these cases is asking if you can do a trial run/foster for the new dog to see if they get along with your dog. This gives you a little time to make a decision. If your dog has been around other dogs without issue and this dog gets along with other dogs, then it is definitely worth a try! Make sure your current dog has the ability to get away from this dog if it is annoying/pestering her, do not leave them alone together initially, and feed them in separate areas so there is no fear of competition for food. Give your dog lots of praise and treats when she meets the new dog. Sometimes meeting on a neuteral ground can be helpful if your dog is defensive of your home. I would also consider getting an Adaptil collar or diffuser which can help both dogs with any anxiety https://www.adaptil.com/us/Products/ADAPTIL-Calm-On-the-go-Collar

Worried about introducing an adult dog to my current dog? Tips!

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