Just like humans, dogs are very social creatures who love to be around other dogs and make friends. Introducing your dog to other dogs can be stressful, but if you follow a few simple tricks, you and your dog will make new friends everywhere you go.

Introductions can be safe and fun if you follow a few steps.

Let Your Dog Be the Guide

This may sound too simple, but it is the easiest way to let your dog learn about other dogs. Because every dog has his or her personality, following your dog’s lead will be best. Slow is better if your dog is shy or scared of others. Introduce him or her to one dog at a time and be close by so that you will be right there if they need comfort and assurance. On the other hand, if your dog loves other people and dogs, your main concern will be that your dog will try to dominate others or be forced into submission. Dogs often understand who the dominant dog is, but sometimes, two dominant dogs will fight, so you need to be prepared to separate your dog from another.

A Leash Is Always a Good Idea

Unless you are sure your dog and the new dog will get along, use some restraint on both dogs so you can separate them quickly if necessary. Dogs need to smell each other to learn about the other dog, so you do not need to try to get them apart. Keeping them apart may make both dogs more anxious, so let them get close and only urge one away if there are signs of aggression, such as ears laid back, tail tucked between the legs, or growling from either dog.

Choose a Good Time of Day

Dogs are a lot like children in that they may not be as eager to meet other dogs at certain times of the day. Meeting another dog will be more stressful if your dog is hungry or tired. Never introduce your dog to another one when he/she is eating, and do not let the other dogs eat/drink from your dog’s dishes. Beyond being unhealthy, it can trigger possessiveness in your dog. The same with his/her toys – let your dog offer them to the new dog.

Neutral Ground

If your dog tends to have a dominating or possessive personality, meeting new dogs somewhere other than home might be the best choice. Possessiveness could trigger aggression in your dog, and he/she may not want another dog near their property. On the other hand, if your dog is very protective of you, you need to be aware he/she may not like a strange dog close to you. Also, if you are considering getting a new dog, several short visits might be a good way to see how they would get along at home.

The trick to successfully introducing your dog to other dogs is patience. Consider your dog’s personality when picking a dog to be his/her friend. For example, you do not want to choose an overactive puppy to meet your laid-back older dog. Instead, take your time and let your dog be your guide.