How to Properly Introduce Your Black Russian Terrier to Another Dog
The first meeting of a black Russian terrier with another dog is always a great unknown. If your existing dog behaves very predictably when meeting another dog it does not know, when meeting a black terrier you must be prepared for surprises. Black Russian Terriers can be misunderstood by other dogs due to their size and appearance. It's important to properly introduce your BRT to other dogs to avoid any negative interactions. By following a few simple steps, you can help ensure a positive experience for both dogs involved.
Astra Fidelis SOKRATES, photo by Annie Taylor, United Kingdom
One of the first things you'll need to do if you're introducing a black Russian terrier to your home is to make sure that any other dogs in the household are comfortable with the new arrival.
If you're introducing a BRT to another dog for the first time, it's important to take things slowly and give both dogs the time they need to get used to each other.
The best way to introduce two dogs is by having them meet each other on neutral ground, such as in a park or on a walk. Allow them to sniff each other and get acquainted with each other's scent before moving on to off-leash interactions. It's important to supervise these meetings and be prepared to intervene if either dog seems uncomfortable.
It is very important not to cause jealousy in one of the dogs, especially in an older dog, as jealousy can cause the situation to quickly get out of control. To minimise the risk of jealousy in one of the dogs, avoid praising, rewarding or giving treats to only one of the dogs. Either reward both dogs or neither.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help ensure a positive experience for both dogs involved:
1. Start by having both dogs on a leash, and allow them to sniff each other from a distance.
2. Once they seem comfortable, allow them to approach each other and sniff more closely. This will help them get used to each other's appearance and body language.
3. If either dog seems uncomfortable at any point, give them some space and try again later. It's important to go at the pace that both dogs are comfortable with.
4. Once both dogs seem relaxed, you can let them off the leash to interact further. This will give them a chance to explore each other more and play together.
5. Always supervise any interactions between dogs, and be prepared to intervene if necessary. This is just a precaution in case one of the dogs gets too rough or uncomfortable.
Summary
In this article I have provided a short step-by-step guide on how to properly introduce two dogs to each other. This is very important to avoid then any unforeseen and unpleasant situations. Mistakes made during the first meeting will be very difficult to correct in the future. So let's do everything possible to make the first meeting a positive experience for both dogs.
Sources
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/introducing-dogs
https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dog-training/getting-started-in-dog-training/dog-training-and-games/how-do-i-get-my-dog-used-to-other-dogs-and-animals/