Introducing Your Dog To The Family
Your new canine family member may be nervous, excited, or even frightened. In order to relax your pet, and initiate your position as pack leader, take your dog for a walk before entering your home for the first time. It is critical to your position as pack leader, that you do not allow your dog to walk in front of you during the first walk. If you have other dogs in the home, they should be introduced to the new pack member in a neutral area outside, or away from the actual living area. Make sure that you lead your dog into the new home. Allowing your dog to lead you inside presents the message that you are not in charge. Keep your dog leashed upon entering your home for the first time, and allow the dog to smell the family. Family members should not talk to your new pet during initial introductions, but try to maintain a calm and quiet atmosphere. Since hugs symbolize social status rankings that represent dominance and invasion of space to dogs, it is important to do your best to refrain from hugs and kisses during the first several days. This step will pay off in the end, since it goes a long way toward teaching your dog that all humans in the household are higher in the family hierarchy.