How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Pet: A Complete Guide
Introducing a new pet to your household is an exciting milestone, but it can also shake up your dog’s sense of comfort and routine. If your dog seems unsure, reactive, or even jealous, don’t worry — this is totally normal. With time, patience, and a thoughtful approach, your furry family can learn to get along. Whether you’re adding a cat, kitten, puppy or smaller pet into the mix, we’re here to help your dog adjust to a new pet with ease.
Give Everyone Their Own Space
Dogs thrive on familiarity, and a new pet can feel like an unexpected guest in their territory. To keep the peace early on, provide each pet with their own dedicated zone. This could be separate dog bedding and cat scratching spaces or designated feeding areas with individual dog bowls and cat bowls. For first introductions, using barriers like dog crates or baby gates can also help keep everyone safely separated while observing one another calmly.
Focus On Calm Introductions
First impressions matter. When you're introducing your dog to a new pet — especially another dog or a cat — it's best to go slowly. Keep initial meetings short and positive, ideally after your dog has had a good walk or play session to burn off energy. Try using calming products and nutritional support, such as pheromone diffusers or treats to set the tone for a chill encounter. If you’re introducing a cat or kitten, offering them vertical space like a cat tree can help them feel more in control, while your dog learns to observe without invading their new mate’s bubble.
Stick To Your Dog’s Routine
Routine is everything to your dog. When something so big as a new sibling enters the household, it’s important to keep certain daily activities (like walking, feeding, and cuddle time) consistent. Maintaining your dog’s schedule tells them, “Nothing has changed between us,” which helps ease feelings of stress or displacement. Keep their favourite toys or comfort plushies nearby and consider offering special chews or treats they enjoy during calm interactions with the new pet as further positive reinforcement.
Look For Stress Signals And Offer Support
Even the friendliest dogs can feel overwhelmed or unsure with a change this big. Keep an eye out for signs like excessive licking, yawning, hiding, or growling when near the new addition. If your dog looks uncomfortable, give them space and try again later. Supporting emotional wellness with dog calming aids like sprays or supplements can make a big difference. And don’t forget the power of reassurance — your loving attention, consistent training, and a few encouraging words in your best doggy voice go a long way.
Build Positive Associations Over Time
Once your dog is relatively relaxed around the new pet, reward calm behaviour with treats, affection, or their favourite toy. Teaching cues like “leave it” or “go to your bed” can help manage excitable moments. Gradually, your pets may even begin seeking each other out — sniffing, playing, or lounging nearby. That’s when the real magic happens: when they become more than housemates, they become pals. Remember, every animal is different, so let them set the pace and celebrate small wins along the way.
Final Woof — Take It One Tail Wag At A Time
Adding a new furry friend to the family is an exciting, love-filled journey. And just like all great relationships, it takes time, trust, and a few tasty treats. By observing your dog’s body language, keeping routines steady, and creating a calm environment, you can help your dog accept — and even adore — their new sibling. If you need extra reassurance along the way, our Petdirect team is here for you because We Get Pet.
Explore our full range of calming essentials, toys, supplements and pet food to keep tails wagging, paws happy, and new friendships blossoming.