How to introduce a puppy to a reactive dog might seem like a funny question to ask. But it’s actually quite common for people who have a reactive dog to want to get them a friend to keep them company, comfort and social time. It honestly does make sense; we all want the best for our dogs.
In this article, we’ll dive into what a reactive dog is, the difference between a reactive dog and an aggressive dog, how you can introduce a new puppy to a reactive dog, what you shouldn’t do with a reactive dog, and our tips on how to calm a reactive dog. Oh, and what to do with a radioactive dog of course. No, just joking 😉
But first, have you downloaded the Zigzag app yet? You’re definitely going to want to – you’ll get the most up-to-date, science-backed dog training, to take your pup from zero to hero! Not just that, but our team of professional dog trainers are available 27/4 to help you over any troubles.
What is a reactive dog?
A reactive dog simply means a dog who overreacts to things. Very often, they are dogs who struggle to cope in certain situations. Some reactive dogs will be aggressive and will want to hurt another dog to keep them away, while others may appear reactive because they don’t know how to cope with the frustration, but are actually quite friendly to other dogs.
We’ve got heaps more information in our puppy aggression article, and if your puppy is biting a lot, we have one on that too…
Reactive vs Aggressive Dogs?
It’s important that you find out whether you have a reactive or aggressive dog when you’re thinking about getting a puppy.
The main differences between them are the motivation and intent behind their behaviour. Generally, reactive dogs don’t intend to hurt other dogs, while aggressive dogs will have a much clearer intention to hurt them because they want them to keep away. This might be because of something like resource guarding, or simply because they are scared.
It’s quite common for a dog to be okay with sharing things with other dogs, but we also want them to be able to share with us. If this is becoming a bit of a problem, you might want to read our article on puppy resource guarding.
How do you introduce a new puppy to a reactive dog?
Introducing a puppy to a reactive dog should be done carefully, and after some good thinking.
Here’s some steps you can follow:
To begin with, you’ll want to have your reactive dog or puppy be in a separate area of your home. For example, you can have an airlock system with baby gates and playpens to keep everyone safe.
Do scent swaps: Scent swaps are where you give a cloth with the other dog’s scent to your dog, and vice versa. Dogs can get a lot of information through scent, which makes this a great way to introduce them gradually.
Use treats and introduce your reactive dog to your new puppy at a distance. Make sure you’re able to get hold of them well and at a distance where they can see the puppy far enough that they can cope and not completely lose their mind.
Over time, shorten the distance between the two of them. Be mindful that your reactive dog should stay calm so that they’re able to build positive (and calming) associations with your puppy.
Avoid telling your reactive dog off if they react to your puppy. Your goal is to make them feel happy and relaxed when they are around the puppy, so telling them off will actually do the opposite.
Make sure each dog has time and space apart, and walk them separately so that your puppy doesn’t pick up any bad habits from the reactive dog.
While you’re at it, this can be a great opportunity for your puppy to have lots of positive experiences with other dogs too! Puppy classes are a great way to do this.
What NOT to do with a reactive dog!
Don’t tell your reactive dog off! Take care that they don’t get overwhelmed and react when the puppy is around. To get this to work, you want to always use positive reinforcement based training, and management.
Don’t let them teach their bad habits to your puppy. Make time to train each dog individually based on what they need.
Don’t put your reactive dog in situations that you know will overwhelm them.
Do pay attention to what your reactive dog is telling you by becoming an expert in dog body language. Speaking of which, did you know that yawning is often a stress response? You can learn more about this in our article on why dogs yawn.
Do let them play together, but keep dog play sessions short and sweet so neither dog gets too riled up.
Do consult with a professional dog trainer if you’re struggling. We don’t want you to become as overwhelmed as your reactive dog…we’ve got enough with one! Our expert puppy trainers on the Zigzag app are always available to chat with you.
Calming a reactive dog
The best way to calm a reactive dog down is to take them out of the situation that they are reacting in. Simple as that. Reactive dogs won’t just “get over it” by keeping them in a situation that they are struggling in.
You might want to check out our article how to calm a puppy down – there’s some fantastic tips in there.
To get going with your puppy training, download the Zigzag app today and start teaching your reactive pup the calmer and more confident ways of life. As always, you can rely on our team of professional trainers to help you every step of the way via our 24/7 in app chat.
FAQs:
Will a reactive dog accept a new puppy?
That really depends on the individual dog – you’ll know if your reactive dog simply absolutely hates all dogs, or if they are just dog selective. If you’ve got doubts, it’s probably best to consult a professional, and think long and hard about getting a second dog.
Should you let an older dog growl at a puppy?
Ideally not. While older dogs are good at teaching puppies what’s appropriate and what isn’t, it is not very fair on the puppy to have them around dogs they know to be aggressive.
How long does it take for a dog to accept a new puppy?
If your dog is normally quite friendly with other dogs, then accepting your new puppy won’t take too long. But with a reactive dog, the process of introducing a new puppy and having them accept them can take weeks or even months!
