by It’s important to know how to introduce dogs to other animals to ensure the safety of the other animal as well as for your dog. Just like humans, not every dog may get along with another animal right away, and it’s critical to introduce them to each other the correct way.
Dogs and other animals
Dogs who are socialized with other animals from an early age tolerate them well and can be friendly. Care must be taking around small animals, however, as dogs have strong inherited tendencies that could cause problems.
When meeting other animals
Adult dogs will try to be friendly with members of any species they’ve met during their critical socialization, which is before they are 12 weeks of age. As they age, they become less inclined to be sociable, and any animals not encountered during puppyhood will be met with caution and alarm.
If a puppy is going to live with or be in contact with other species, it is vital that they meet them as early as possible, especially if they’re required to be relaxed and happy in their company.
During these meetings it is important that the puppy have pleasant encounters with other animals, because meeting an aggressive animal can quickly cause a puppy to become fearful and aggressive to that particular species.
Predatory instincts
As well as early socialization, dogs need continued supervision when in the presence of small animals so that excitement doesn’t escalate into predatory behavior.
Dogs are descended from wolves, and so they retain many of the traits that are useful for hunting. Some breeds are more difficult than others in this respect.
Those whose immediate ancestors were bred to kill vermin (terriers for example), those that were bred to chase (herding dogs), and any others with a strong predatory instinct are much more likely to be troublesome to other animals than those bred as companions.
Care should always be taken with small pets such as hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, and birds. It is surprising how quickly a dog can turn from a calm pet to an aroused killer when little creatures scurry around them or fly off suddenly.
Their instincts are strong and should not be underestimated, especially when they are around small, vulnerable pets.
Chasing games
Some animals are more likely to be chased than killed, but this behavior can potentially get dogs – and their owners – into trouble. Horses for example, are large and, if unfamiliar to the dog, can represent a serious challenge that the dog may decide to scare away. All kinds of livestock are potential chase targets for an inexperienced, untrained dog.
The likelihood of traffic accidents, damage to property, and potential injury to other animals, as well as to the dog, is high when dogs chase out of control. For these reasons, owners should do all they can to avoid this behavior.
This can be best done by accustoming puppies to livestock, horses, cats, and other small pets from an early age. Sitting with them under control in a place where they can experience these animals will teach puppies to relax and to behave well with them in the future.
This process can take longer with adult dogs, but they too will gradually learn to accept other animals if you can find enough time to train them to do so.
Dogs and cats
If cats and dogs grow up together, they can learn to tolerate, and even enjoy each other’s company. If they have never lived with one, however, the family dog may be aggressive to a new kitten or cat and try to chase it out of the house, particularly if they are a terrier.
Time is important. All you can do is make both animals feel as comfortable and safe as possible, giving each time and space to find their feet, and not forcing encounters until they are ready to make friends.
Conclusion
The key is not rush anything and try to get your dog familiar with other animals early. Remember to always supervise the situation when dogs are with different species, and don’t force them onto each other – it may take some time for them to get used to each other.
