I'd really like to hear some thoughts and advice on the best way to introduce a new adult bitch (3 years) that we are re-homing.  We have a young bitch presently who is very easy going and well socialised with dogs of all ages.  Both new and current dog is crate trained.  All comments and ideas are appreciated.

I know the food brand etc that she is on at the moment so can keep this the same so as not to stress her.  She likes walks, so I was planning a good long walk early on to tire her out a bit so she sleeps well on her first night.

I have two seperate crates and would not need to leave them unsupervised together initially.

Thank You.

Hi lillyloo

I don't have much experience of bitches but wanted to wish you well, and to bump this thread to the top again - I wonder if it got missed?

I've always found side by side walking a great way for dogs to meet initially, is there someone who can come with you whilst you walk both girls together?  It may make sense to consider your new one as if she were a puppy, make sure they have a chance to toilet separately so they don't get distracted and to minimise anxiety accidents,  use baby gates to give them some 'own' time and safe spaces.  Also remember to give them both plenty of 1:1 time with you.
If you get a chance to go to a training class with your new one it will be a great time to bond with her and to discover her strengths.

Good luck

Hi Lillylou,

We rehomed an older bitch last year. Before Megan came along we had 2 bitches, one of 6yrs and one of 3yrs. Megan was 8yrs when she came to live with us. I was a bit apprehensive at first as our 6yr old (Alaskan Malamute) can be funny with other dogs she doesn't know and can be territorial. We introduced them gradually, at the end of our drive at first so it was sort of 'neutral' territory rather than in 'her' garden. There were some grumbles at first from our Mal but she ignored her after a while. Is it possible for you to take both dogs on a walk, maybe you have a partner or friend who can bring the new bitch and you can walk your current girl? Then they are introduced on neutral territory. If your current girl is easy going then hopefully it will go ok.

I wouldn't take her on too long a walk personally - she'll probably just be tired from the change of surroundings. I'd definitely as you say keep them separate for the first day at least. Also, I'd advise on getting separate water bowls for the 2 dogs as I found my Mal girl was a bit funny about Megan drinking from her bowl. My other bitch is a CKCS and she is very easy going and took to Megan straight away.

HTH, Good luck and let us know how you get on! :-)

Thank you both, Alice and Dogs a Babe for your advice.

I'll definately take someone with me on the 1st walk and meet the new dog out in the driveway.  Hadn't thought about the walk being too long, so will keep it to a reasonable amount of time.

I am off to buy a baby gate and new water bowl.  Good ideas.  Good point too about the 1 on 1 time - my young one is used to having lots of attention, so, I think I'll make time for each dog seperately in the evening and I like the idea about training.  I have a local training club we go to and will take the new dog seperately so we can have some time to get to know each other.

I have always owned dogs, but this is the first time I will have re-homed one.  I am really excited but a little bit anxious.  Both are big breeds, so I guess my main worry is aggression.  My young bitch is pretty submissive with other dogs so I am hoping that both dogs find their feet early on.

I am collecting the new dog this coming Monday so I will let you know how it all goes.  Wish me luck!

Lilly

for the first introduction i would definately do it out on a walk.. out of the home.. so that the new bitch doesnt feel overwhelmed by a new territory!

It sounds like you have already had some good advice. 

Just want to wish you good luck for next monday and hope everything works out well for you all.

Thanks to all.  Monday will be here before I know it!!

I'm sure you'll all be fine, but just remember when she's got you put of bed for the 3rd time cos your house 'sounds different' that there will always be huge numbers of dog people standing in gardens all over the country with just wellies and a nightie, holding a torch in one hand, and an umbrella in the other, whilst waiting patiently for their beloved to 'perform' and trying to stop it barking at next doors cat.

Talking to a friend today who has 'new puppy' lack of sleep and an intimate knowledge of her neighbourhood after dark - at least your girl will know what is expected even if she takes a little while to settle!

Hope it goes ok  

Dogs a Babe, that made me laugh - you know we've all done it!!

Lilly 

Hi again,

Just wanted to let everyone that gave advice know that all has gone really well (so far).  We have taken things really slowly, spent time with each dog individually. 

Walking is really fun and both dogs having a lovely time.

Inside the home still being a bit careful as puppy gets very boistrous - too much energy!!!!

New dog feels like she has been here forever. Love her alot already.

We are very lucky, LillyLoo

Dogs a Babe - was out this morning at 6am in my dressing gown and slippers, crunching around in the frost.  Remembered your post!

> Dogs a Babe - was out this morning at 6am in my dressing gown and slippers, crunching around in the frost.  Remembered your post!

Yes, me too - wasn't it cold!?!

Glad it's going ok with you all xxx

Just to say I'm glad that you posted on the outcome.  I'd been reading thread and wondered how it had all gone.  Well done you.  :-)

Thank you.

Lilly.