This is a great question that I receive quite often from clients. Many of our clients have other pets like Golden Retrievers, cats, horses, and more. How do we effectively introduce your puppy to “the pack?”

Learn YOUR Place In the ‘Pack’

First, realize that there is a pack structure. You may not know it, but it’s there. If you’ve done a good job, then you should be the pack leader…the “Alpha.” In many households, a pet is allowed to display dominance and “be their own boss.” If you have a dominant pet, take extra caution. If you have a submissive and not aggressive pet towards other animals, then the transition will be much easier.

If your other pets are submissive

If you have a submissive and loving pet, then introduction can be as easy as having them in a room next to each other or having your puppy in a crate while you introduce him/her to the “pack.” Allow them to sniff each other. If you purchased a “Recherche” Golden Retriever, you have a major advantage because our pups are obedience trained and extensively socialized with other people, dogs, and cats.

Most English Golden Retrievers that we have trained will have no problem with another dog…in fact, they may be too eager to play with them. Most of the time, our English Golden Retriever pups will attempt to jump all over and play with your other pets. Because of this, be gentle with the introduction. Puppies can behave like energetic and sometimes bothersome junior high boys. If you have a very patient and playful dog/cat, that will make for an easy transition. If you have a mature, laid-back, and calm pet, introduce your English Golden Retriever gradually as they may find them annoying initially.

If your other pets are dominant

If you have a dominant or aggressive dog, be extra careful. It may take hours or even days before you put the two pups together. English Golden Retrievers are generally calmer, which can aid in the introduction. Make sure you are present during the introduction just in case there is any aggression shown. If your pet shows aggression, correct it immediately. If said aggressive behavior is coming from a cat, then most likely you’re not going to do much to change it. However, if the aggressive pet in question is a dog, then you must re-train your dog to understand that he/she is not the alpha, but you are. You are accepting the new pup into the “pack,” and your dog doesn’t have any say in it.

English Goldens are very smart and will learn quickly if your older pet doesn’t want to be friends. Normally, they will leave each other alone if your older pet shows no interest. Take your time so that your older pet will get used to the smell, sound, and look of their new Recherche English Golden Retriever friend.