Can Two Dogs Ever Just Not Get Along?

Introducing a new dog to a home that already has a dog can be a bit of an adventure. It is always recommended that this process be completed slowly and carefully, as dogs can be a bit territorial and aggressive with strange dogs – even the breeds not known for aggression. There is an entire process that dog owners need to go through in order to safely introduce two dogs together.

But, you may find that the process seems like it’s taking longer than normal. You may find that the dogs do not seem to be getting along, even when you do everything right. Is it possible that two dogs might never get along? Can two dogs just decide that they’re not going to be friends?

Dogs and Personalities

The answer is “yes.” Dogs, in a way, are not that different than people. Dogs have personalities, and those personalities may or may not get along with the personalities of other dogs. A dog that is shy, prefers people, and doesn’t play much with other dogs is probably not going to start suddenly playing with a dog that is more jumpy, energetic, and playful.

But dogs can learn to tolerate each other, and may even treat each other like they’re part of the pack when they’re properly trained. If your dogs do not seem like they’re getting along, look to see why you think that:

Are they growling and aggressive with each other?
Are they territorial, and showing signs that they’re uncomfortable with the other dog around?

If you’re seeing those types of issues, then it may not be personality based. It may be that the dogs were still not trained successfully to be part of the same home together. Dogs do have to be introduced the proper way in order to interact in a healthy manner, and if the dogs are still feeling territorial or upset, one way to solve it may be further socialization and working on your pet’s overall behaviors so as to help them interact in a healthier way for the both of them.

Call Marc Goldberg for Dog Training and Two Dog Homes

Professional dog trainer Marc Goldberg is available to help work with both of your dogs and make sure that they’re getting the support they need. Marc is an author and experienced dog trainer that can assess why your dogs are struggling, and try to help make sure that your pets are getting along as best they can. For more information, contact Marc, today.

Calvin and Colleen Sheehan (Assoc. Producer - The Oprha Winfrey Show)

Marc Goldberg with Cesar Millan, "The Dog Whisperer"

Our Philosophy & Goals

Our philosophy is simple. Improve the life of both dog and family. All too often, unruly dogs do not fully enjoy life because their families constantly become upset and frustrated with them. This is difficult for both family and dog.

Our mission is simple. Make both dog and family happy.

What does is take to make your dog happy? He will thrive when you give him leadership and attention.

Making the family happy is a bit more complex.

Families typically want their dog to:

Come when called, every time, on or off leash
Walk nicely on a loose leash without pulling
Sit until released
Down until released

Families also want their dogs:

Not to jump on people
Not to charge through doors
Not to dig in the garden
Not to bark and chew inappropriately
Not to climb on furniture you prefer they avoid
Not to sniff and eat off the table and counters.
Not to be wild and uncontrollable
Not to ignore you when you want their attention