07/10/2026
Bringing a new dog home isn’t about putting everyone together and hoping they work it out.
A successful introduction begins before the dogs ever meet. I think about the individual dogs involved, prepare the environment and make a plan that gives everyone the best possible chance of feeling safe.
Here’s what I do as a behaviour professional when introducing a new dog to the home.
1) I start with the dogs already at home.
I consider their personalities, preferences, past experiences and how they usually respond to change. One dog may enjoy meeting a new dog on a walk, while another may cope better with a carefully managed introduction at home.
There isn’t one perfect introduction method—because every dog is different.
2) Next, I get to know the new dog.
I watch their body language, learn what helps them feel comfortable and notice how they respond to people, dogs, movement and unfamiliar environments.
That information helps me make decisions based on the dog in front of me—not assumptions about their breed, age or history.
4) Then I choose the introduction that suits those particular dogs.
That might be a parallel walk, a brief on-lead greeting or carefully managed off-lead time. For some dogs, meeting immediately isn’t the best option at all.
The goal isn’t to force interaction. It’s to create enough safety and space for both dogs to make good choices.
5) Before anyone comes inside, I prepare the home.
Food, toys, chews and other valuable resources are removed. Baby gates and separate resting and eating areas are ready, and I make sure every dog has somewhere they can relax without being followed or disturbed.
Good management isn’t a sign that the introduction has failed. It’s what helps prevent problems while everyone adjusts.
6) I give them time and space.
Dogs don’t need to become best friends immediately. They don’t even need to interact constantly.
Allowing them to observe one another, move away and rest separately takes the pressure off. Comfortable relationships are allowed to develop gradually—they aren’t rushed.
We're aiming for roommates first friends second.
7) I don’t simply let everyone loose in the house and leave them to work it out.
The early days include short periods together, plenty of breaks and genuine time apart. Baby gates, separate rooms and supervision help everyone settle without becoming overwhelmed.
More time together isn’t always better. Calm, successful time together is what matters.
8) And then there’s Midnight. 🖤
Her arrival was absolutely not planned—but somehow, she simply slotted right in, as though she had always been meant to be here.
How she came into my life is an incredible story, and definitely not one I can squeeze into an Instagram caption.
So, if you see me, ask me about Midnight’s story. Trust me—it’s worth hearing.
