Try taking the dogs to a neutral location, like a nearby dog park. Just make sure you keep their leashes on at all times so you can separate them if needed.
Pay attention to your dog’s body language during the interaction. It’s normal for dogs to whine or bark at each other when they want to play. However, if you notice that your dog’s ears are pinned back, its muscles are tense, or its tail isn’t moving, it’s a sign that your dog is uncomfortable with the meeting. If your dog growls or the hair on its back and neck lifts, you may pause. Pet your dog and talk to them to soothe them. When they have calmed down, continue walking towards the other dog. [3] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Dogs will often bow with their front legs pressed down and their hind quarters lifted. Although it can be mistaken for aggression, it actually a sign of play. Other signs of play include bouncing and exposing their stomachs. They should also take turns when playing chase. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Becoming very still, rigid, or tense Lunging Growling or snarling Pulling back the lips to show teeth Snapping or biting[7] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Hair standing up on their back[8] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Your dog may not like that the visiting dog is playing with their toys or sleeping in their bed. Even if you think that the dogs are best friends, you should keep watching them in case an argument occurs. Bring the visiting dog’s toys and bedding along so both dogs have their own belongings. When you leave the home, you may want to separate and confine the dogs. This will prevent a fight while you’re gone.
Dogs can also fight over treats, bones, or high-value toys, such as Kong toys. [11] X Trustworthy Source Best Friends Animal Society Nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving animal lives by operating and supporting no-kill animal shelters Go to source Either give both dogs a treat at the same time or avoid giving them treats altogether.
Grab your dog by the rear and pull them away. Put them in a separate, closed-off area. Ask someone else at home for help breaking up the fight. Use a deterrent spray such as citronella spray, Direct Stop, or Spray Shield. You can also use a long broom or a chair to separate the dogs. If your dog is the aggressor, you may be able to use a simple command such as “Stop” or “come here” to distract them. Never break up a fight by grabbing the dog’s face, neck, or collar, as you might be accidentally bitten. [13] X Research source
If the dog needs to be walked at the same time that you usually walk your own dog, you should consider which dog needs to be walked first. For example, an older dog may not be able to wait to go outside like a younger dog. Make sure you ask the owner where the dog’s food, bowls, and medication are located so that you can feed them efficiently before returning to your own dog. If there is an emergency with the other dog, you should have their vet’s number handy. Think about who you can call to care for your dog while you take the other dog to the vet.
Visit the other dog at least three times a day: once in the morning, once in the late afternoon, and once in the later evening. Make sure to let the dog outside, walk them, play with them for a little while, and feed them. [14] X Research source At least one of these visits should be an extended visit, when you play and talk to the dog for a longer period of time. This will keep the other dog from becoming bored and destructive. Don’t leave the dogs inside for longer than 10 hours at a time. If you’re watching an older dog or a dog with a disability, they may not want to spend a lot of time playing outside. Instead, you can cuddle with them on the couch and watch a movie or read a book. Don’t forget to take your travel time into consideration when you’re making a schedule for the dogs.
Just because the other dog doesn’t look sick doesn’t mean that they are not carrying germs. Washing your hands can also help reduce the scent of the other dog on you. Your dog can probably smell the other dog, and this may cause them anxiety or discomfort.
