Today in Pitbull Puppy Training Tips, we’re going to talk about making the first introductions.
This will actually be more about the dogs you have in your home now that the puppy you’re bringing in.
Generally speaking, you should have an easy time of it, but these Pitbull puppy training tips on introductions should help ensure that it’s smooth sailing.
Pitbull Puppy Training Tips for Smooth Sailing
Introducing a new puppy to a home that already has a dog should be approached with caution, but not fear. You want to be careful, but you never want to give off a nervous vibe. Dog’s pick up on your mood, and if you’re nervous, your dog will be nervous. If you dog is nervous, you could have a problem.
Related: Our Top Pitbull Puppy Training Tips
Make it Fun
If you have a dog that’s already well socialized, then make the addition of your Pitbull puppy one big play date. Don’t rush into it, but don’t be tentative either.
If you know your dog is a friendly pooch just put the puppy on the ground, and let the fun commence. Remember to always stay very close to the action, though. You need to be able to intervene at any moment.
Take It Slow
Pitbull Puppy Training Tips Pro Tip: Ease into it if you’re iffy on your dog.
If you’re introducing your new Pitbull puppy to a dog that’s a little stand-offish, remember to take it slow. Introduce them in a neutral environment. That could be anywhere the dog already inhabiting the house doesn’t feel particularly possessive of.
For example, if your dog doesn’t normally take naps, eat, and all of that in your bathroom, introduce your Pitbull puppy there. The key here is NOT to introduce your new Pit pup and your other furry family member in a place where the other dog feels particularly territorial.
Give the Dog You Already Have Lots of Love
I know it’s hard not to ooh and aah over your new Pit 24/7, but you have to try. If you remember nothing else from this Pitbull Puppy Training Tips article remember this: jealousy can be the death of a canine relationship.
If you’re introducing Max to Milo, don’t let Milo get lost in the shuffle. Give him plenty of attention. In fact, give him more attention in the beginning. If he comes around asking to be played with, do it.
Even if you’re busy or you’re already playing with your new fuzzy family member. Never let Milo feel pushed to the side.
Keep Toys Out of It
This goes hand in hand with introducing your new pup in a neutral environment. Even the friendliest dog can be possessive of its things, so never ever – no matter how incredibly friendly your dog may be – introduce your new Pitbull puppy to your other dog while toys or chewies of any sort are around.
You’re just asking for trouble. And while your new Pit might not get hurt if your other dog snaps or attacks, it might just get the idea that it needs to be on guard against your other pooch.
Pitbull Puppy Training Tips for a Smooth Introduction
Over the years, I’ve had many, many animals. I’ve had up to 15 dogs at one time – all rescues. I’ve done my fair share of introductions, and they’ve all gone smoothly.
If you follow the advice I’ve laid out in this edition of Pitbull Puppy Training Tips, you should have no problem with your introductions.
Do you have any pitbull puppy training questions? Ask in the comments!
Author
-
A former Veterinary Assistant at Southwest Animal Care Hospital, Ben is an animal lover, blogger, and all-around geek. Along with writing for DogVills, Ben runs his own virtual assistant company, BizzyBim.
View all posts