How to Introduce Big and Small Dogs: A Pooch's Point of View

Well, who do we have here? A new pooch to introduce to the pack? They’re a little on the small side but let me give them a quick sniff. Yep, just as I suspected—smells like a dog to me! I’m sure we’ll be best friends.

But wait! Before you throw us in together, let’s talk about the best way to introduce dogs—because size matters when it comes to first impressions.

Introducing a big dog to a small dog (and vice versa) isn’t just about saying hello. We all have different personalities, energy levels, and unique preferences for playtime, so a thoughtful introduction will help us build a great friendship. Let’s dig into how to introduce two dogs to each other so everyone stays happy and safe!

Know Your Dogs!

Now, before you go about introducing a new dog, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. Namely, how does your current dog feel about meeting a new dog? If possible, you’ll want to ensure that any new dogs you’re bringing into the family will be a good fit, so consider their respective personalities, energy levels, and even their breeds.

And on that subject, bear in mind that size isn’t any indicator of a dog’s personality. A small dog might be a confident little leader or a reserved spectator, while big dogs like me can be gentle giants or bundles of boundless energy. Dogs are a lot like books in that regard; you can’t judge us by our covers!

Another important question to consider when adopting a dog is around our past experiences. Has either dog had any bad experiences with other dogs before? This shouldn’t stop either pooch from being able to reach out and make new friends, but you may need to go a little slower with introductions if either dog has had any negative interactions before. Every dog is different, don’t forget, so be patient and let us set the pace.

How to Introduce a New Dog to Your Dog for the First Time

Choose the Right Meeting Spot

Now then, time for the introductions. When you’re an established pooch like me, you don’t want to feel like you have to defend your home from a newcomer—no matter how small they are! So, when it comes to the best way to introduce dogs together, let’s meet in a neutral area like a park or a friend’s garden. This ensures we’re both beginning on equal footing.

It’s also important to keep us both on leashes at first to help maintain control. Just make sure our leashes are loose, so we don’t feel too restricted. Having two humans—one for each of us—will make things a lot easier.

And again, don’t let the smaller dog deceive you! They may be on the little side, but even so, keeping control of the situation will be much easier if you keep them on their leash.

Keep the First Interaction Short & Sweet

Quality over quantity—that’s what I always say (unless we’re talking about treats of course!). A few minutes of calm is better than a long, overwhelming first meeting.

The perfect introduction between big and small dogs should involve walking us side by side, instead of letting us rush into each other’s space. Over time, as we become more comfortable together, you can let us move closer.

But don’t rush the process. Keep each session brief, gradually building up the time we spent together with each progressive meeting.

Watch Our Body Language

Us dogs do a lot of speaking with our bodies, so watch out for these signals that indicate how we’re feeling:

• Good signs: Loose, wiggly bodies, relaxed tails, soft eyes, and lots of curiosity.

• Warning signs: Stiff bodies, tucked tails, raised hackles, lip licking, or staring.

These signs are universal regardless of our size, so if either of us looks stressed, take a step back and give us a break.

Helping New Dogs Feel at Home Together

So, you’ve successfully steered us through those first pooch introductions—great work! But now it’s time for step two.

Once we’re familiar with each other, we’re going to need to get used to feeling comfortable in our shared space at home. Remember, each dog – big and small – will need their own area to retreat to when they want a break, especially if one dog is feeling overwhelmed. Feeding us in separate spaces will help avoid any mealtime tension, while allocating us different sleeping areas ensures we feel safe while resting.

On that note, positive reinforcement goes a long way! Praise and treat us when we remain calm and respectful around each other. If we associate positive behaviour with rewards, we’re more likely to develop a friendly and relaxed relationship.

Another great way to help us bond is by engaging in shared activities. Walking us parallel to one another builds familiarity, while playtime with toys we both enjoy helps us learn how to have fun in each other’s company.

What NOT to Do When Introducing Dogs

Okay, we’ve covered the best ways to introduce two dogs to each other—now let’s talk about what not to do:

• Don’t rush the introduction – We need time to adjust at our own pace.

• Don’t ignore warning signs – If one of us is nervous or uncomfortable, slow things down.

• Don’t force interactions – Just because you want us to be best friends, this doesn’t mean we’re ready yet!

• Don’t leave us alone together too soon – Always supervise us until you know we’re truly comfortable around each other.

How ADAPTIL Can Help Keep Our Introductions on the Right Track

Ready for a little bonus tip? I’ve overseen a fair few introductions in my time – for both large dogs and small – and if there’s one thing I swear by, it’s ADAPTIL. After all, a calm pooch is a happy pooch!

Here are my personal recommendations for introducing dogs together:

• ADAPTIL Calm Diffuser: Plug this pheromone diffuser into the room in which your pooches will be spending the most time to create a relaxed atmosphere.

• ADAPTIL Calm Collar: Simply clip these collars around our necks to keep us both feeling secure, no matter where we go!

• ThunderShirt by ADAPTIL: This calming vest for dogs is great for reducing stress, especially for nervous pooches when meeting new friends.

A Happy Pack is a Balanced Pack

Remember, if you take your time and read our body language, us pooches can go from awkward acquaintances to best friends, with all the waggling tails you’d expect! Just keep it positive and respect our size differences, and who knows? Maybe we’ll even be curling up for naps together—if your small dog can find a spot big enough on the bed!

Would you like to learn more about dogs and the best ways to care for us, or simply want more fascinating insights into dog behaviour? Well, we have a huge range of articles to continue exploring online! And if you’d like to receive the latest updates straight into your inbox, don’t forget you can also sign up to our newsletter.