Dear Dr. Diane,
We have a 6-year-old American Staffordshire and are interested in adopting a 7-month-old (same breed) from our local shelter? We have done one meet and greet and it went ok. My dog did one, just one low growl during play and from then on he played and occasionally ignored the pup. The behaviorist attending (who could of used a new set of interpersonal skills) stated that she was concerned about that one growl. I understand that having two dogs one is going to establish dominance. My dog has been around other dogs before and was raised with our shi tzu. But how can I tell if this pairing will not work out…by just one growl. I’m skeptical of this behavorist’s opinion. Please help!
I would arrange with the shelter to have the dogs meet and greet several more times together in neutral territory with both of them on a leash and separated but fairly close together. and then together in a room. I would talk softly, kindly in a friendly but firm and authoritative manner. Your older dog will more than likely assert his dominance. If the younger one is submissive and respectful, to your older dog, that is a sign that he accepts his authority. I would not base my decision to adopt on the basis of one growl or the advice of one behaviorist. I would get the opinion of at least one other behaviorist and shelter workers who actually witness the interaction between the dogs. I would have the dogs spend more time together to get familiar and comfortable with each other.
If your 6 year old exhibits any aggressive behavior (hackles up, barking, lunging, baring teeth, snarling, etc.), more than likely this is not a good match. If he does not exhibit such behaviors and you do decide to adopt the 7 month old, I would supervise them when they are together and keep them separated when you are away. I would take away any treats or toys from them while they are together so that there is no temptation for them to become jealous and fight. I would treat your 6 year old lovingly as you always have and not be excessively affectionate to the new dog. You don’t want to make the 6 year old jealous!
Dr. Pomerance is an animal behavior specialist and an expert on topics such as deciding which puppy is best for your family, how to pick out a rescue, and on healing from the loss of a pet.
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