When canines meet for the first time, their encounter may remain friendly, or quickly deteriorate into a fight. Knowing how to identify the telltale signs of each situation will help you protect your pet and others from injury. It's also important to be aware of the factors that can trigger a confrontation. That way, you can avoid circumstances that are likely to lead to problems.
Below, we'll describe the manner in which most canines interact when they first come across each other. You'll learn how each investigates the other animal to gather information, and gain a level of comfort. We'll also explain the reasons many dogs get off to a rocky start when they meet, including engaging in full-blown fights.
When Both Pets Are Sociable
Dogs that have received socialization training are usually receptive to meeting new pets. In fact, unless they have had negative experiences with other canines in the past, they are likely to be excited by each other's presence. They will display signs of being relaxed, such as keeping their mouths open, and allowing their tongues to hang. You'll also see their tails wagging, which implies a natural affection.
They will normally approach each other from the side rather than from the front. This is normal as each animal watches for signs of tenseness or stress in the other. When it becomes clear that each dog is friendly and receptive to further investigation, sniffing begins.
The animals gain insight about each other by sniffing their respective backsides. They might then nudge each other's bodies, or encourage the other to participate in play. Healthy, sociable canines tend to follow this pattern.
Getting Off On The Wrong Foot
In some cases, one or both animals will be on edge in the presence of the other. This can occur for several reasons. For example, one of the dogs might wish to establish himself as an authority over the other. He will display dominance by approaching the other canine with a steady stare and rigid posture. The second animal can either return the challenge or defer to the first animal. Deference might include rolling on his back to expose his stomach or simply averting his eyes.
As long as one of the dogs is willing to yield, the initial confrontation is unlikely to escalate. Both pets may begin playing together once each other's status has been clarified. However, if neither animal is willing to concede, a fight is likely.
The Socially Incompetent Canine
Many owners neglect to provide socialization training to their dogs during the early developmental phase of their lives (i.e. the first four months). These pets often enter adulthood distrustful of other canines. When they observe another dog, they become nervous and display their fear through barking, growling, and assuming a combative pose.
If a socially incompetent dog is on a leash, his behavior may be even more aggressive. This is because his leash prevents his escape, forcing him to face the presumed threat. In such circumstances, owners must maintain tight control over their pets, defusing the situation to prevent injury.
Reasons Conflicts Occur
The location in which canines meet for the first time plays a large role in their interaction. If they meet in the home of one of the animals, a confrontation is more likely. The canine that lives in the home may perceive the other animal's presence as an encroachment. When dogs meet in a neutral location, such as a park, confrontations are rare. Afterward, they can usually be introduced to each other's homes without problems.
Another reason confrontations occur on-leash is because one or both canines consider their owners to be incapable of offering them protection. They believe they must fend for themselves in hostile circumstances.
Dogs normally enjoy quick camaraderie with each other. In many cases, they begin playing together within moments of meeting for the first time. However, realize that canines can behave in a tense or aggressive manner for several reasons. Learn to read your pet's body language so you can take steps to prevent fights.
Below, we'll describe the manner in which most canines interact when they first come across each other. You'll learn how each investigates the other animal to gather information, and gain a level of comfort. We'll also explain the reasons many dogs get off to a rocky start when they meet, including engaging in full-blown fights.
When Both Pets Are Sociable
Dogs that have received socialization training are usually receptive to meeting new pets. In fact, unless they have had negative experiences with other canines in the past, they are likely to be excited by each other's presence. They will display signs of being relaxed, such as keeping their mouths open, and allowing their tongues to hang. You'll also see their tails wagging, which implies a natural affection.
They will normally approach each other from the side rather than from the front. This is normal as each animal watches for signs of tenseness or stress in the other. When it becomes clear that each dog is friendly and receptive to further investigation, sniffing begins.
The animals gain insight about each other by sniffing their respective backsides. They might then nudge each other's bodies, or encourage the other to participate in play. Healthy, sociable canines tend to follow this pattern.
Getting Off On The Wrong Foot
In some cases, one or both animals will be on edge in the presence of the other. This can occur for several reasons. For example, one of the dogs might wish to establish himself as an authority over the other. He will display dominance by approaching the other canine with a steady stare and rigid posture. The second animal can either return the challenge or defer to the first animal. Deference might include rolling on his back to expose his stomach or simply averting his eyes.
As long as one of the dogs is willing to yield, the initial confrontation is unlikely to escalate. Both pets may begin playing together once each other's status has been clarified. However, if neither animal is willing to concede, a fight is likely.
The Socially Incompetent Canine
Many owners neglect to provide socialization training to their dogs during the early developmental phase of their lives (i.e. the first four months). These pets often enter adulthood distrustful of other canines. When they observe another dog, they become nervous and display their fear through barking, growling, and assuming a combative pose.
If a socially incompetent dog is on a leash, his behavior may be even more aggressive. This is because his leash prevents his escape, forcing him to face the presumed threat. In such circumstances, owners must maintain tight control over their pets, defusing the situation to prevent injury.
Reasons Conflicts Occur
The location in which canines meet for the first time plays a large role in their interaction. If they meet in the home of one of the animals, a confrontation is more likely. The canine that lives in the home may perceive the other animal's presence as an encroachment. When dogs meet in a neutral location, such as a park, confrontations are rare. Afterward, they can usually be introduced to each other's homes without problems.
Another reason confrontations occur on-leash is because one or both canines consider their owners to be incapable of offering them protection. They believe they must fend for themselves in hostile circumstances.
Dogs normally enjoy quick camaraderie with each other. In many cases, they begin playing together within moments of meeting for the first time. However, realize that canines can behave in a tense or aggressive manner for several reasons. Learn to read your pet's body language so you can take steps to prevent fights.
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