Introducing Your Dog to New Roommates

The search for a good roommate can be challenging. There are a list of things you have to consider, even more so when you have a dog. As you go through the interviewing process make sure to keep these things in mind. 

Be Honest and as Thorough as Possible

Whether you’re moving in with them or vice versa, be honest. Don’t start off the relationship by lying about your dog’s needs or habits. Talk to each other and make sure there’s a basic understanding of any animal involved. Make sure you’re honest with yourself, too. Don’t accept the wrong accommodations because it’s convenient. If you know your dog is bad with kids, don’t move in with someone who has them. You’ll avoid a lot of heartache this way. Discuss your way through every nook and cranny of everyone’s habits. Ask every potential roomie about dietary needs, good and bad habits, accommodations, allergies, and everything else under the sun. Life will be easier if all parties have well-meshing cogs. 

Set Up a Specific Time for Introductions

Once you pick a roommate, set up a specific time for them to meet your dog. Even if your roomie doesn’t have a pet of their own, it’s still important to have real introductions. At the meeting, have your roomie and their pet (if they have one) stand opposite you at a safe distance. Put your dogs on a leash and let them approach each other. If they’re immediately aggressive or threatening, pull the leash back. You can take a break or try again. If it’s a good match, then the dog(s) should be able to approach each other nicely and curiously. Let them play around and get to know each other. Remember, the first few weeks should be full of supervised play time so they can get comfortable without risking any fights.

Helpful House Rules

If it ends up being a good match, then now would be a good time to set up house rules. Since you were thorough during the initial interview, it’s going to be easy to set up guidelines for everyone. Consider each other’s feeding times, work schedules, medical needs, and so on. Having good ground rules is the best way to avoid any drama. If you notice that Bingo and Fido just can’t get along, don’t be afraid to bring in a third party. Training is one of the best ways to fix a canine problem and should always be considered.