Traveling With Your Dog

Here’s the scenario. You have a Golden Retriever at home and you think it’s a great time to acquire a friend for your faithful companion. Here are some ideas for you to consider for an easy transition.

You have to be aware that any new pet introduced into the home will result in your Golden Retriever being out of sorts and possibly jealous when a new member of the family arrives. Some children go through the same thing when Mama comes home with a new baby. The battle for attention has now begun.

Dogs are territorial by instinct, even to the point of trying to protect their masters from anything possible threat. Normally after a little getting used to the upset in their domain, your faithful dog will calm down and realize he’s still king of the castle and that hamster or cockatoo is nothing to worry about.

But what if that new member of the family is another dog? There is a little more to consider with this one.

Your dog, king of his domain will not only assert a dominant natural response, but may decide a fight is required. Whether it be food, a toy or just rough play, this is a normal animal instinct and should be allowed and not interfered with. Once the new dog realizes he has to follow the king’s rules for a while it won’t be long until everyone accepts their place.

You might want to separate the dogs at first. Let them learn each other’s scents from separate corners of the ring for starters.

Create an atmosphere allowing them to get to know each other in safety. It may be necessary at this time to use a kennel until each one is comfortable with these rules. The same thing could be necessary if the new pet is a cat as well.

When the two are finally nose to nose, it’s imperative to not play favorites. They must both be regarded as equals while allowing the new dog to learn its surroundings, and your faithful pet to figure out why there is this new intruder around.

Once all participants understand the newness, take your pet out for a walk. He needs to know you are still there, that he is still your buddy. Try not to change things around too much in his routine, or it will be more difficult for him to accept the new pet.

If he shows any aggressiveness toward the new pet, call him to another room to spend some needed time free of interaction. Praise him for obedience and offer treats when commands are followed.

When putting food out for each dog always give preference to your older pet. Being the alpha male he deserves respect. Teach the young pup his place to keep peace among them.

Establish a routine involving both pets. Not favoring one over the other is key to harmony. If one gets a treat or new toy, the other should too.

Now, there may be some rough housing over who wants what toy, but in the end, left to their own devices, normally the younger pup will submit, and they will work it out.

Eventually they will find their own place. A bond will form and they will become the best of friends. It’s probably a good idea to limit their time alone together until boundaries have been established.

No matter the type of pet you introduce your alpha male to, remember that all new relationships take time to establish trust. This is no different with animals. Just remember to give them time, be patient and make sure each of them gets the love and attention they deserve.

Fran Gratton

Fran Gratton RubMyBellyToo.com POB 107 116 Gay Street Phoenixville, PA 19460 610-933-5810 888-558-3837

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phillipians 4:13