How to Introduce Two Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs have to have passed a fairly rigorous test in order to get their designation and this means they are social beings with a good sense of self. Still, the idea of meeting a stranger for the first time can be a bit harrowing if you don't know the signs of acceptance and submission. One of the safest ways for two dogs to meet is in a controlled environment. This usually means that both are on lead with handlers who understand the body language of their canid. Allow only enough room for the two dogs to get nose to nose.

Watch the dogs carefully. Notice if each is willing to greet the other. If their tails are slowly wagging, their heads held high and their ears erect even a bit of stiffness in the bodies, this usually indicates curiosity. If one of them slightly dips their front and the tail wagging increases, the ears relax and the body takes on a 'play bow' position, it is an invitation for more personal inspection. Muzzle kisses may be offered, the tail drops and the belly is sometimes shown by one to the other. This is a submissive invitation of friendliness.

At this point you may carefully allow for sniffing of the sides and rear by the less submissive dog. When both dogs 'play bow' it is probably safe to allow them to interact either on loose leads or off lead if you are in a place where it is safe to do so.

Never allow your dog to rush up to a new dog and start sniffing at its sides or rear. Many dogs resent having their 'space' invaded by a stranger and will show teeth, growl or even snap if pushed. Any dog that takes a straight line directly toward another dog is challenging it. Watch for slight arcing on the approach as this indicates a lesser threat.

Never allow your dog to rush up to a strange dog and start sniffing at its sides or rear. Many dogs resent having their 'space' invaded by a stranger and will show teeth, growl or even snap. Any dog that takes a straight line directly toward another dog is challenging. A slight arc on the approach indicates a dog with good manners who is politely asking to meet.

Perhaps the easiest way to remember how to comfortably and properly introduce your dog is to ask yourself if you would like to have a stranger rush up to you, grab your hand and begin to talk into your face.

If your dog has a tendency to run at other dogs, stare, raise his tail and hold it stiffly, keep him on the leash until you know the other dogs in the area accept this posture. It is a position assumed by a dominant dog and if there is another dog who feels dominant, too, it could lead to problems. One of my pet peeves is to be out walking with my dog on lead and meet someone whose dog rushes straight at mine with the other person saying, "Don't worry. He's friendly."

I have news for you; that is not the way to have two dogs meet. Very often aggression is escalated if a dog is on lead and is rushed by another dog. If your dog has a tendency to do this have control enough that, even if off lead, he will come to you when he is called. It is just good manners.

Everyone appreciates a little distance, a 'comfort zone' from others. Dogs appreciate the same consideration.


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