Hi all,
I'm thinking about fostering (temporarily) a young bitch. What would be the best way of introducing her to my lot, seeing that they all live in the house?

Is it a good idea, or am I likely to disturb my 'pack balance'?

Indecision, indecision.......

I think you are sensible enough to be able to manage it perfectly well JG - I think you should go for it

But then, I would say that wouldn't i ;) :D

Hi, i reckon the best way to introduce them all would be outside, in a feild or park somewhere, NOT in your garden, as thats as much your dogs territory as your house is.

Em

Hi J/G

I start by introducing them to the pack leader first and then down the pack to the bottom one, bringing them in one by one. I find that then the newcomer is not overpowered by a whole pack at once.

Quite a good idea is to wipe her over with one of your used vetbeds so that some of their scent is already on her before introduction.

Depending on how territorial yours are I agree that away from the house is quite a good idea, but I have in the past introduced in the house or garden with no problems.

Jayne

I usually use a crate and crate the newcomer in the kitchen then let my other dogs investigate keeping everyone safe then swap them over to let the newcomer get used to the house without being hassled. I tend to play it by ear really with a newcomer as to how well they are being accepted on both sides, as I've also introduced on neutral territory before.
I think fostering is a great idea :) Give it a go - you'll know if its upsetting your balance too much and then you can hand over to someone else if she's from a rescue. It may work out as well - and you may end up with an extra permanent dog :)
Good luck
Lara x

Yes go for it ! You know what you are doing !

We normally let the girls introduce themselves if we have visitors just keeping an eye out for any grumbles that may get out of hand . How many have you got now and what sexes?

I know you have some boys so I am sure they would welcome her with open paws ! :)

Lucy

That's one of my major worries, Lucy!!!

My girls are both spayed, but the boys are entire, and I don't want to upset the applecart!

MMmmm see what you mean ! How old is she ?

Lucy

11 months. Harry and Piglet could have a wonderful time trying to slaughter each other to get to her first....

There may be trouble ahead :D Harry and Piglet and all that testosterone ! Good luck ! I am sure it will be OK. She might not be interested in boys yet ! ;)

Lucy

Every summer I walk one or two hound pups for the hunt. They come at 8-12 weeks and leave at 6 months. My lot accept them from from day 1 & revert back once the pup has left. I suppose it depends on how nervous your new one is, but in my case the pup is removed from the landrover, the hounds are let out one at a time over a few minutes & i stand well back & let them get on with it!! Usually the pup rolls over & lets everyone have a sniff/lick & within the 1st hour they are all charging around the field/garden together! Just make sure the new bitch doesnt panic & disappear....probably en enclosed garden is best. good luck.