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Tips on how to introduce second (smaller) dog to our rather energetic dog

20 replies

Oreosforbreakfast · 08/01/2019 17:34

Hi,

So we've been thinking about getting a second dog for a while now, but ideally a smaller dog than our lab X cocker, mainly for space tbh, as our house isn't massive.

Our dog is 2 and is FULL of energy, but has calmed down a bit in the past couple of months. She's lovely with other dogs and very playful. Never aggressive, although does sometimes need to know when to back off

Anyway, someone I know has a one year old Frenchie that they can't afford to keep anymore, due to unforeseen (pressumably financial) circumstances. Apparently she doesn't have any health issues, which I know is notorious with this breed. Actually, before I go on, I understand the controversy of this breed, but I wouldn't have been interested in a puppy, as I don't necessarily agree with continued breeding of them, but this is essentially a rehoming. I wouldn't be interested in breeding her, but anyway, I'd rather not get into a debate about that.

All that aside, after researching their temperament, she could actually be a good fit for us from the sounds of it.

So, if we did go ahead, does anyone have any tips or advice on how to make the transition/introduction run as smoothly as possible?

They'd need to sleep in the same room (kitchen/diner)but the plan was, at different ends of the room.

Do dogs normally just accept a new addition or are there usually teething problems? I know this can vary so much, but just wanted to hear your experiences.

My main concern are the sleeping arrangements tbh. Our dog just goes to bed and sleeps through til morning, so am concerned they'll disturb each other in the night.

I should also say, we honestly think a buddy for our dog would be really good for her, as I think she can get a bit bored and as I say, she's great around other dogs.

Thanks for reading

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Whoseranium · 08/01/2019 18:31

Would you have the opportunity to introduce them gradually over a period of time? Ideally you'd want them to meet somewhere neutral (preferably somewhere new for them both) and have some walks together then gradually work up to her visiting your house and staying for longer and longer periods until she moves in full time.

Are either dog crate trained? Having one or both crated at night would be a good idea, at least until you're confident they get on well enough with each other to be left loose all night. It'll be a big change for both dogs (yours getting used to a new dog in the house and her getting used to a new home as well as suddenly having to share with another dog) so it may take a while for them both to settle into a routine at night. Do you know how the Frenchie currently sleeps? If she's used to sleeping in her owner's bedroom then she'll need to get used to sleeping separately from people gradually.

It would also be a good idea to initially feed them separately to make sure they're not uncomfortable eating around another dogs, especially as it'll be something neither are used to as only dogs. The same goes for toys/chews/etc., no free access until you know they're happy sharing.

Apparently she doesn't have any health issues...

She may not have any issues now (though do bear in mind that breathing problems in short faced dogs are very much under-reported by their owners) but many of the issues Frenchies are prone to are progressive and having clear breathing at a year old doesn't mean it will stay that way. Make sure you know exactly what you're getting into in terms of potential health issues. Good insurance (which will be expensive, and it's expensive for a very good reason) is an absolute must.

Because of their extremely short faces Frenchies can't cool themselves anything like as efficiently as a normal dog can. This means they're very prone to heat stroke, even in temperatures that don't seem particularly high. This is something to be particularly careful with if they're trying to keep up with a dog who isn't at so much risk in warmer weather.