In our last blog post, we covered how to introduce your old dog to your new dog to set the stage for happy coexistence. At this point, you may be wondering “What about for dogs that we do not live with?” After all, dog lovers frequently have friends and family with dogs, and what would be cuter than your dogs being best friends? We understand, and we say long live the doggy playdate! Here are some tips on how to have a dog playdate that is safe and fun for all involved.
DO: Advocate for your dog
If you take nothing else away from this blog, let it be this: be your dog’s advocate! We talk a lot about dog body language, and that’s because it’s so important to understand! Dogs’ best way of communicating their thoughts is through their body language. If your dog is feeling stressed, scared, or uncomfortable, it is your responsibility to speak up on their behalf. If someone asks if your dog can greet their dog on the leash and their dog is not behaving well, say no. If play is turning too rough, separate your dog and allow for things to calm down, or end the dog playdate early. Your dog is counting on you to keep them safe!
Do: Be safe… especially until vaccinations are complete
If it is a dog that your puppy and you do not know, you should avoid any direct contact with them. The risks of your puppy getting sick or injured simply outweigh the benefits. Don’t worry! You’ll have plenty of time to introduce your puppy to other dogs in the future. In the meantime, you can begin building positive associations by putting your puppy safely in a stroller or backpack and giving them treats when another dog passes. It won’t take them long to learn that new dog = delicious treat, and it has the added the bonus of teaching your puppy to pay attention to you rather than the other dog.
Exception: Puppy Classes
Because puppy training classes are full of young puppies, it is possible that not all puppies will have completed their vaccinations. This is a sterilized and controlled environment, but you can still take steps to make it as safe as possible. All of the puppies in the class should be up-to-date on vaccinations. Avoid nose-to-nose contact unless directed to allow it by the instructor. Socialization does not mean only when the dogs are in direct contact. Simply sitting in the same room counts!
Don’t: Have a Blind Date
Take a chance to meet the other dog before you introduce your precious pup. Meeting the other dog gives you a chance to sniff out any behavioral problems that may cause a problem in your dog playdate. If you have reason to think it will not go well, now is your chance to turn down the interaction before it now involves two stressed out animals.
Do: Meet in a Neutral Territory
As we discussed in the last blog, a stranger suddenly coming into the home can be uncomfortable for the resident dog! Having first meetings on neutral territory is the best way to start their relationship. Try not to pick anywhere that has a lot of traffic or is noisy because this could set your dogs on edge, and avoid anywhere with obvious hazards. If you plan to allow off-leash play at any point, be sure that the area is secure. You might be surprised at how many options you have! Their meeting place could be a park, a hiking trail, a dog-friendly restaurant, a store, or even a pet store.
Do: Go on a Pack Walk
Weather permitting, a pack walk is a great way to double up on socialization and exercise. This can be done with more than one dog in your circle, too – the only rule is that every person has only one dog at a time! For the duration of the walk, that dog will be their responsibility. This is also good practice for the puppy to remain calm and focused on their handler while on leash.
Don’t: Allow for Prolonged Contact Right Away
Even if you do not intend to go on a full walk, do walk your dog around a little bit and allow them to get used to each other. When both dogs are calm and paying attention to their handlers rather than to each other, you can allow them to go up and sniff each other. Follow the two second rule of sniffing. Let the dogs say hi, and before they start to feel defensive, call back and give them treats. Continue this a few times to allow the dogs to feel comfortable with one another. If you are introducing your puppy to another puppy, you may see an instant progression into play-bowing. For a more reserved dog, progressing to the point of off-leash play may take more time.
Do: Supervise at all times
Remember – you are your dog’s advocate! You cannot advocate for your dog if you are on your phone or only paying attention to the other owner. Keep an eye on your dog playdate to make sure that both parties are still having a good time. Interrupting play by calling your dog over every now and again keeps the dogs from getting overstimulated and reinforces your puppy’s recall.
Don’t: Have a free-for-all
Dog parks are often a “bone” of contention for dog owners. Some argue that it is great socialization for your dog. Others say that it is potentially dangerous because of how many animals are there, and that it can also be a vector for doggy illnesses. Whether you choose to go to a dog park is up to you, but if you do please be warned that other owners may not be watching their own dogs nearly as carefully as they should. A dog park is an uncontrolled environment with a lot of strange dogs. A controlled dog playdate with friends is a much better choice, and your dog would honestly have more fun!
Similarly, doggy daycares are a toss-up. If you choose to enroll your dog in a day-care, be very selective and visit the facility before bringing your dog for the first time. A free-for-all daycare may do more damage than good.
Do: Have FUN!
Safety is first and foremost in any interaction with your dog, but once you’ve covered your bases, don’t forget to have fun! Try making some doggy popsicles, set up a dig pit or a kiddie pool, or toss around a ball. With a little bit of patience, thought, and responsibility on the part of the owners, you can end your doggy playdate with two (or more!) tired and happy dogs.
