Ideally, introduce the dogs on neutral territory that is familiar
to both dogs or where neither one has been for long. If
this cannot be conveniently arranged, let them greet on
the outside perimeters of the resident dog's territory.
This may be in your neighborhood at a distance from your
home. In the heart of your dog's territory, such as inside
your home, conflicts are more likely to occur.
As much as possible, place the new dog in a "down/stay"
position in the resident dog's presence. Teach the new dog to
accept a submissive position. Teach the new dog to accept a submissive
position in deference to your resident dog, creating a clear basis
for their relationship. This should help control their initial
encounters so that they can gradually work out their social status
by subtle challenges and with only minor conflict later. If your
resident dog has a passive and submissive temperament, the new
dog can be designated as the dominant one.
If problems escalate, separate the dogs
and slowly reintroduce them under careful supervision.
In cases of extreme aggression by either or both dogs
toward the other, it is probably not worthwhile to proceed.
