5. Once you have several meetings where the dogs’ bodies appear relaxed (loose, wiggly bodies) the next step is to try the two dogs loose in a fenced area so they can move around as they wish. Tips for home introductions The steps outlined above provide an optimal opportunity for dogs to meet one another. If that's not possible, however, use these tips for an introduction at home: • Do outdoor introductions before bringing the dogs into the house together. • Leave the leashes on so you can control both dogs if needed. • Be sure to remove any bones, toys, and food bowls that your resident dog might feel the need to protect from the new dog. • Keep the dogs separated while you are gone until they are comfortable with each other under a variety of circumstances. • When you are home, supervise their interactions and give them breaks from each other by crating one at a time or taking them for separate walks. • If an altercation occurs, separate the dogs for a few days to give them a break from each other. Stress hormones can take this long to return to normal, and if you try to continue the introduction too soon, the altercations could get worse. After a few days, you can return to the previous step to continue building a positive relationship. Keep in mind: Some posturing and mild aggression can be normal as dogs become more comfortable, even after a successful first few days or weeks. Don’t panic!
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