Kai and I have really been enjoying our adventures in fostering dogs in need! Since Hurricane Harvey, we have opened our home to several sweet pups and we've learned a lot along the way. Since I've gotten a lot of questions about introducing new dogs to your house and pack, I'm going to share with you my best tips for creating long-term comfort when new dogs are freely interacting and living together.
Successful pack integration depends on three key ingredients: time, structure, and leadership. BUT, it has to be the right leadership to let each dog know they're on the same team. It takes a lot of attention to detail by monitoring their every move and responding in ways that create a positive experience. Dogs are pack animals and they need an established pack leader. Without this, they are going to attempt to be the leader themselves by exhibiting dominating behavior. Exert your own position as the dominant leader of the pack by using a firm voice and consistent directions...well, and lots of love to develop rapport! Dogs aim to please, so make your expectations clear, deter unwanted behaviors with a firm "no' and a redirection toward an acceptable alternative, and reward positive behaviors with praise and treats.
My dog, Kai, and Nora are both labs. Two labs = lots of excitement,they just can't help it! Their wiggly butts and jump-for-joy enthusiasm is all the same in these furry friends. Excessive excitement can be a challenge for Nora, or any new dog for that matter. Nora is easily excited by excitement! She and Kai can both be relaxed and comfortable in a room together. It's when movement and attention happens that Nora begins to get nervous and to seek Kai out. Since Kai has been in a loving and consistent home his whole life, he is well-trained and he has been such a STELLAR guy and role model. He will listen to me when I tell him to move out of Nora's bubble, stay put when asked, and responds to my commands to chill out on his excitement! This is helping Nora learn to calm her own excitement rather than expressing it by impeding on Kai's personal space. I am dedicated to my goal of helping Nora learn acceptable behaviors from positive experiences of success and I'm confident this will help her settle into a new home and not see her headed back to the shelter. This will be key in her future happiness. I hope she will find a loving home with the leadership, guidance, and patience that she deserves! And I am so proud of Kai that I ordered him a new pet bed, treats, and puzzle to reward him.
Check out Austin Pets Alive right now to speak to a match maker about adopting Nora or one of the other sweet and worthy dogs awaiting their fur-ever homes!
