The Quality of 'Fur'ship

Just like humans, dogs live a life full of friendship and love. The key to any friendship is approaching others in the right manner. Read along with these 4 major tips to help your dog make their best friends for life;

1. Introduce the dogs properly: This is a major step in creating a friendship between dogs. Not every dog is going to like every other dog and that is okay. One big mistake that is often made by dog owners when introducing two dogs is the setting. Introducing dogs in a wide-open field, on a walk, or even outside is the best way to connect in the beginning. By walking both of them together in a neutral territory, you allow the dogs to get to know each other by sniffing and greeting. A huge no is introducing two dogs in a house or a closed environment. This allows the dogs to become possessive and show aggression, which you do NOT want.

2: Watch the dog's body language: Just like humans, dogs show emotions and feelings through body language. When you first introduce two dogs, be sure to stay alert and watch both dogs, it can tell you a lot about the situation. Despite some variations, the basics tend to be the same. Dogs should move toward each other in a calm and relaxed way. Sniffing is a huge part of the process! Dogs may take an interest in any area with glands, pheromones or other scents. Therefore, let your dog sniff, this is how they get to know the other dog. If the greeting is going well, the dog's bodies will remain relaxed. Their tails may be moving and their jaws should be relaxed as well. BOTH dogs should show signs of comfort and relaxation.

3: Be patient: If you just met someone, time is going to play a factor. You simply do not become friends, instantly. Questions, personality traits, and time all play a part in making friends. Well, you guessed it, same with dogs. Some dogs can become fast friends within a few minutes or hours, where others may never get along. This could be due to personality clashes, such as a social versus antisocial dog. You can not expect two dogs that have different personalities to get along right away. Time is everything so give the dogs a chance.

4: Be consistent: Relationships tend to grow over time with communication and being with each other. Because dogs can not walk themselves or drive themselves to their friend's house, it is the owner's responsibility to make sure dogs see other dogs daily, or on a schedule. By being consistent two dogs will bond and create a relationship that will last a lifetime!