Introducing a new family member to your dog can be difficult. You want them to get along, but they need time to adjust and learn about each other. This post is going to focus on tips for getting your dog used to the new person as well as how your new house rules will make this transition successful!
Work on Training Before Introductions
If you're planning to have someone move into your home, it's important to take some time to train your dog to accept new people. The first thing you need is a good training program that includes exercises like obedience commands and tricks. You want your pup on their best behavior when they meet this person!
By making sure your dog has been trained beforehand, your dog should already understand what you want. If they become too excited by a new person, a command like "go" can tell them that they need to leave the room. A command like "sit" can tell them that they need to be calm. If your dog doesn't know any commands, this will take a lot more time and patience than if they already knew some of the basics.
Secondly, take time beforehand with them outside so they can get used to being around strangers without feeling threatened or scared. They may bark at trees or joggers but if they're getting more comfortable, then all of these interactions will make it easier going about meeting others later on in life just. The dog will know what is happening instead of always expecting something bad. Really though, this kind of training should be ongoing. Once someone is ready to move in, it's a little late to socialize your dog.
Let Your Dog Meet This Person Before They Move In
A great first step at introductions is to bring something of the new person into your home for your dog to smell. Grab a shirt or blanket from your new family member's house and bring it home. Put the item in a room your dog is already familiar with so he can get used to it and become familiar with this new person's smell.
Once you've done this, let your dog meet the new person somewhere neutral. You don't want this person coming into the home yet as your dog may feel it's their territory. Meet outside at a park or even have this person bring treats for the dog. Most dogs are naturally curious and a meeting at a familiar but neutral place will help them feel more comfortable.
Set Up Rules for Both
If your dog seems nervous and is growling, showing teeth, or even biting this person it's important that you don't punish the dog for its behavior. You need to teach your new family member how to interact with your dog. You should be on the same page with commands and rules for the dog.
Start by teaching your new family member about boundaries and what is off-limits. Your family member should know where the dog's space is and where they feel most comfortable. Make sure they know not to touch things like food, toys, or even bedding as these are all personal items that a dog may be territorial over. Have this person assist you in taking care of the dog. You should assemble the dog's meal but have your new family member give it to them. This will show your dog that you trust this person and that they should too.
Don't Force Your Dog into Interaction
When meeting new people, you don't want to force your dog into anything. Your dog should be allowed to sniff and investigate on its own. If they decide to engage in interaction, that's great! But if not, don't push them towards the other person as this will make your dog uncomfortable. A stressed or uncomfortable dog can act in unpredictable ways.
If your dog seems uncomfortable, you should give them a break. Take this time to pet and play with or comfort them. Once your pup seems more relaxed about the situation, try again.
Remember to Have One-on-One Time
Remember that your dog thinks they are your best friend. Introducing a new person can make them feel like they must share you with someone else.
So, make sure to include plenty of one-on-one time for them--even if it's just a quick walk or game. This will help your dog feel like they still get the same amount of attention from you, even though there is another person in the house as well.
Easy Review
Here are some simple tips for getting your dog used to a new family member:
- Train your pup to accept new people by associating them with good things, like treats or toys.
- Introduce the person around other dogs they are familiar and relaxed around in order to get their scent.
- When first meeting, have the person crouch down to their level.
- Establish house rules with everyone living in the home so that your pup can be comfortable.
