Introducing a New Pet

Introducing a new dog to your current dog or cat should be done slowly and thoughtfully to set everyone up for success. Start by keeping the new dog separated for the first few days, allowing your pets to become familiar with each other’s scent through blankets or bedding. For dog-to-dog introductions, begin with a calm, neutral meeting outdoors, such as on a walk, keeping both dogs leashed and relaxed. Avoid forcing interaction—short, positive encounters with plenty of praise help build trust. Always supervise early interactions and give each pet their own space, food bowls, and resting areas.
When introducing a new dog to a cat, patience is especially important. Use baby gates or crates so they can see each other safely without direct contact. Allow the cat to approach on their own terms and ensure they have high spaces or quiet areas to retreat to. Reward calm behavior from the dog and redirect any chasing or overly excited behavior. With time, consistency, and positive reinforcement, most dogs and cats can learn to coexist peacefully and even form strong bonds.