Training Bullytin #10:
Multi Dog Households: Marvels or Mayhem
Bulldogs are like potato chips; you can’t have just one. But before bringing home that second, third, or forth lump of drool and wrinkles you must learn the Law of Bulldog Math. 1+1= 4 2+1= 6 2+2= 10 If the math does not deter you then you’ll want to continue reading.
PREVENTING MAYHEM MEANS MANAGEMENT
Management, if nothing else, is what can mean the difference between peaceful cohabitation and daily madness. The basics of management include putting distance between dog bowls; picking up toys and chews that cause conflict; and using gates to keep dogs separated. Walking one dog at a time can make enrichment a more enjoyable experience for everyone. ADD ONE MORE
ROUTINE
Good training is built on the foundation of predictability. First this happens, then that happens. First the dog sits, then he gets to go outside. When we establish predictability that benefits the dogs we get free training. So, rather than four excited bulldogs crowding the door to the backyard and predictable chaos occurring when it opens, we can train the pups to sit six feet away from the door and wait to be released to go outside. That’s training.
But the magic happens when we include predictability! If we then release the dogs one at a time, in a particular order, we have established a predictable pattern for the pups. “First, I go to my place away from the door. Then, Pavlov goes outside. Then, Pinker goes outside. Then, Watson gets to go... and FINALLY IT’S MY TURN!!!”
The powerful combination of training and routine can be used at feeding times, at crating times, at treat times, etc.
Please note the R word I’ve used here is ROUTINE, not RANK. This is not about rank or dominance. This is about PREDICTABILITY; which is far more powerful.
TRAIN SEPARATELY. GENERALIZE TOGETHER.
More often than not, another dog present during training is a distraction, not a model. When you are ready to teach your bullies something new introduce the skill during individual training sessions. Once the dog has the skill mastered in a distraction free setting you can add another trained pup to the scene.
The added distraction of another dog will usually require you to temporarily lower your standards. But once they learn to ignore each other you can build up your criteria again. I know this sounds like a lot of work, but trust me, this is much more efficient than expecting one dog to “set an example” for the others- that just doesn’t work.
THIS ISN’T THE BRADY BUNCH
There are no guarantees your newest bully is going to be welcomed by the old guard. Owners can go a long way in creating a peaceful coexistence by taking a few preliminary steps when making the decision to add a family member.
- Multiple Meetings. Sitting next to a stranger on the bus is a lot different than moving in with him. Don’t expect a single introduction to be the predictor of ribbons and rainbows. Get dogs together in multiple settings before making a decision
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Body Language. Rapid panting, whale eye, activated whisker beds, paw lift, shift in body weight. These are just a few signs that a dog may be uncomfortable. Curved body, bouncy gate, bowing, relaxed panting, role reversal, and handicapping are the things we want to see when we get two bullies together. To learn more about dog body language visit www.ispeakdog.org
- Slow Introductions. This is the most important thing you can do but sadly it is the most ignored. Even if the duo gets along famously in meet and greet settings you still need to provide slow introductions to living together. Proper dog-dog intros take days, not hours. First, provide the new pup a secure space of his own with food and water, bedding, and toys. Scent swap blankets and create a positive association by pairing the experience with treats and play. Allow short visits through a gate. Walk the dogs together. Provide short outdoor play sessions; first without ,then with toys. Move all that fun inside. Finally, they can learn to relax together.
You may think this is an awful lot to go through to bring home a new bully. But returns due to poor dog-dog relations are one of the most preventable issues shelters and rescues face. Returning a dog after a traumatic incident is hard on everyone, but saddest for the bully who is leaving yet another home.
HAVE EMPATHY
Dogs do not ask to live together and, despite obvious conflicts, may not be given a choice. Seniors shouldn’t have to put the new pup “in his place”; as an owner it is your job to protect them both. Protect the delicate flowers from the schoolyard bullies. Provide pups their own space, toys, and one-on-one time. Consider that what one dog finds enjoyable the others may find annoying. The most successful multi dog households I see are the ones who treat each member of the family as individuals with their own sets of likes, dislikes, and boundaries.
If you need advice about bringing home a new bulldog, or any other training, I’m happy to help.
Jenelle Bell, CTC, CPDT-KA, Certified Fear Free Professional
Your Dog’s Champion
