Introducing a 2nd dog to the house, any tips?

[Marne]

We are going to visit a rescue dog on sunday (a staffy girl), we will be taking our other dog with us to meet her and fingers crossed they will get on, we will have to wate for a home visit before we bring her home so could be a week or so (if all goes to plan).

I want things to run smoothly, our dog is a bit hyper and playful, she loves playing with other dogs but can get a bit carried away (just doesnt stop when the other dog has had enough).

How should we introduce them without our dog getting to excited and scaring the poor thing? I tried to explain all this to the lady from the rehoming centre and she seems to think all will be ok as the other dog is happy to play and is great with other dogs.

Should i take my dog for a long walk before we go to see the new dog (in hope to tire her out)?

How did you introduce a 2nd dog?

[panicnotanymore]

Neutral territory is best, and avoid leading them towards each other head on. A nervous dog can get a bit freaked out by eye contact staring. I'd say a long walk first is a great idea.

Once the dog is living in your home - separate sleeping areas to start with, ditto bowls. They'll need a bit of space from each other whilst they settle down.