Help with new dog.

stripey

Hi I hope someone can help me.
My mum has cancer and has to have her leg amputated. She has a lovely Neapolitan Mastiff who is quite old with some health issues. Obviously her lifestyle will have to change and for the time being will be in hospital. Currently her dog is being looked after by a friend but this is not ideal long term.
I will gladly have the dog because I adore her but I have two staffies of my own. What I would like advice on is how I introduce a new dog to mine without any fighting etc.
Any advice gratefully received.
Regards stripes.

SeduLOUs

Have the dogs already met and do they get along?

If not, make sure the initial introduction is on neutral territory, i.e. at the park, not your house.

Assuming they appear to get along there shouldn't be much trouble, but I wouldn't leave them alone for a few weeks, especially not around food, so that you can keep a close eye on them while they figure out a pecking order amongst themselves.

stripey

Hi thanks for your reply.
In answer to your question no the dogs have never met before. One of my dogs is to be honest very possesive of me and can become snappy towards other dogs if they approach me.
Cheers.

elsien

You need to be able to separate them in the house as well while they're getting used to each other, and to give them a bit of time out from each other / one to one time with you with other dogs out of the way.
You might want to think about the practicalities of feeding separately as well if necessary, as that can be a bit of a trigger point.
Are they crate trained?


Have a look at this previous thread which has some helpful suggestions.
https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4756754

stripey

Thanks for the advice. There is some great advice on that thread.
Cheers stripey.