Getting Along with Other Dogs | Dog & Cat Health, Wellness, Products and Breed Information

Getting Along with Other Dogs
| Print | April 14, 2009 10:07 AM

Even if your dog is an "only dog," it's a good idea to teach him how to get along with other animals. Proper social behavior will help your dog at the vet's office and on walks, and will help expand the number of places you and your pooch can go together.

A properly socialized dog refrains from mounting other dogs, does not steal their toys and does not urinate on them. Beyond that, dogs usually work out their own pecking order and manage to have a good time together.

Keep your dog under your control on a leash whenever he's likely to meet other dogs. Supervise their interactions and pull your dog away if things are getting too rough.

While you're at it, be a properly socialized human as well! Pick up your dog's waste, be quick to acknowledge when your dog is at fault if a canine dispute breaks out and be sure the dogs are interacting appropriately before you turn your attention to making friends with other humans.