In the last blog post we talked about how to set your Habibi Bear puppy up for success when introducing them to new dogs in your own home by removing food bowls, toys, chews, bones, bedding and blankets temporarily for the duration of the visit. By eliminating any items of potential conflict, we are managing any increase of stress for your Habibi Bear puppy, much like we would do for a toddler. In this blog post, we are going to discuss how to smooth over any potential “personality conflicts” between dogs with a little planning and being proactive so everyone can get along by meeting on neutral ground. Before you plan that coffee date at Peet’s, Cafe Vita, or Bark Espresso, arrange a meet and greet with your friend and their dog somewhere ahead of time to determine compatibility. What happens if your Habibi Bear guy or gal doesn’t get along with your bff’s 8 year old Bernedoodle? Or your son and daughter-in-law bring over their rescue dog for a weekend bbq? In this blog post, we are going to discuss how to smooth over any potential personality conflicts between dogs with a little planning by meeting on neutral territory for both dogs and proceeding gently, letting the dogs set the pace of the introduction and monitoring the time limit together.
Know Your Habibi Bear puppy
Remember that different dogs have individual temperaments and stress thresholds, so it is very helpful to know how your dog is wired:
- Are they cautious or bold? -Are they a party animal or a wallflower?
- Are they calm or more of a busy bee?
- Do they go with the flow or do they have difficulty shifting gears?
Knowing your Habibi Bear pup’s preferences can go a long way in knowing coming up with a game plan ahead of the meetup. If you have never met your friend’s dog, ask a few questions beforehand to see if they will be a good match.
Match up energy levels if possible
If introducing your young Habibi Bear puppy to an older dog, make sure your pup is in more of a neutral state and have already had some exercise so they don’t aggravate their “elders”. Very young puppies and very senior dogs need to be supervised carefully, as most puppies are still learning their doggie manners and need help being polite, which can be overwhelming to older dogs who could be less tolerant of their exuberance and joie de vivre. The best matches are among pups of similar stages:
- Older pups approximately 4 months to 6 months old
- Adolescents approximately 6 months to 18 months old
- Adulthood is approximately 18 months to 7 years old
- Senior stage is approximately 7 years old onward.
Take A Walk and Take your Time
Walking in the same direction but not too close together is an excellent way for dogs to get acquainted in a neutral way. Keep leashes very loose. If both dogs remain unbothered, then you may decrease the distance between you all and get into sync. Alternate one walker and dog at a time taking the lead. If doggie body language stays relaxed and interest is shown, let the dogs set the pace of introduction. Watch for any instances of body/tail stiffness or whale eyes…more time and space may be needed. Sometimes shy dogs will need more time to warm up to another, while for others, it could be love at first sight. You’ll know right away if you see wiggly, loose, body language and pouncing play bows if it is a love connection.
Limit duration and avoid overstimulation
Like any new activity, keep the interaction short so neither dog gets overwhelmed or overstimulated. For some pups, there is too much of a good thing. It is best to have a time limit and end on a good note rather than let the meeting go one too long and end in a frenzied scuffle or too much rough housing. If it went well, plan one or two more neutral meetups and walks before asking the pups to share an intimate space. Chances are good that by meeting on neutral ground, letting the dogs set the pace in meeting up, and a little walk around together, you’ve taken the steps in forming a basis for a beautiful doggie friendship that will last a lifetime.
We know that one of the reasons we have our dogs is to be able to socialize out of our homes, and we hope that we have been able to give you an idea of how to do that in a way that is safe and easy for everyone. If you need more tips or help, make sure you reach out to us at any time. We love guiding our Habibi Bear Tribe in their journey with their Original Teddy Bear Puppies. We are always here for you, cheering you on!
