Friends Of The Dog NZ

The Myth of "Meet & Greets" in Dog Introductions

"Meet & Greets" are often touted as a go-to method for introducing dogs, but they can be misleading. These brief, intense interactions rarely predict how dogs will actually get along in the long run. Whether the dogs seem to hit it off or show signs of dislike during these short meetings, it doesn't necessarily reflect how their relationship will develop under various conditions.

Consider how daunting it is to go to a large social event, if you're someone who has social anxiety or gets claustrophobic. Dogs face similar challenges when introduced to new canine companions. One major risk factor in dog-dog aggression cases is poorly facilitated early introductions. Instead of relying on initial "meet & greets," focus on gradually building relationship over time.

A newly adopted dog already has to adjust to new humans and environments without the added pressure of fitting in with established dogs. Start by fostering neutral responses between the dogs in controlled conditions. Understand that forming cooperative relationships can take months, and that some dogs may never become best friends across all contexts, or evolve into social butterflies... And that's okay. With these dogs, management will be your best tool.

Investing time in the beginning to help your new dog develop healthy and safe relationships with both humans and other dogs is crucial. This process cannot be rushed or based on a few short meetings. For example, the newbie could spend some time on walks with another dog who largely ignores him, setting up a calm environment where hanging out together becomes normal or even boring. However, if these dogs were to live together, this careful, rehearsed approach under managed conditions would be essential.

Avoid rushing the process—patience is key to fostering lasting and harmonious relationships!

Sign the Petition Equipping future veterinarians with updated and diversified sterilization techniques.

The Forever Dog LIFE is officially the first ever “dog🐕 & cat🐈 recipe book” that has made The New York Times Best Seller List. And it’s because of you, you are all part of history today.

What a week...❤🙏🏻🐾

This Sunday…

Been there, done that! 🤭

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Happy International Rescue Dog Day!

A common misconception is that all it takes is love ❤️ for rescue dogs to overcome their traumatic pasts.

Rescue dogs often need so much more than love- they need time, space, patience, enrichment, a team of certified professionals, consistency, sometimes medication (and that’s ok!!), and love to help guide them in their new home. To help them feel safe, secure, and to know what to do when they’re triggered.

This is why rescue dogs (and all animals) are our best teachers. They show us that they’re messy, that no one is perfect, that life isn’t always rose-coloured glasses.

Through our journeys together, they teach us about ourselves.

The Worst Dog Treats You Can Buy My least favorite dog treat, they're high in calories and, surprisingly, they're often found on pet poison lists. They contain high levels of hydroxyproline, which can be problematic for dogs prone to bladder stones. And if you knew the grisly process used to make them, you'd never buy them again.

All-Natural Pest Deterrent for Pets Understand the ongoing debate between chemical and natural preventives and how to make the best choice for your pet's health and well-being.

Priorities, priorities!

ACV's scent and taste repel fleas! 🌿👌

Discover more ways to use ACV to repel pesky pests in today’s free article (link in the comments).

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During Animal Cruelty Awareness Week, remember to be compassionate toward animals, no matter what. The way we treat them reflects our moral character. 🤝🌟

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Losing a furry friend can be a heartbreaking experience, not just for humans but it can be equally upsetting to our canine companions. Dogs are incredibly social and sensitive creatures, and they too can feel the pain of losing a mate. They experience a range of emotions including joy, fear, sadness and even empathy. While their emotional range may not be as complex as humans’, dogs can still form strong bonds with their owners and mates, and show signs of affection, loyalty and distress... Read more at: https://friendsofthedog.co.nz/the-dog-blog/helping-your-grieving-dog-tips-for-coping-with-loss

If you'd like to read my article, "Why Does My Dog Eat P**p?" (pg. 33 & 34) in the latest issue of InFlow Magazine, please go to: https://inflowmagazine.gumroad.com/l/mdrmd

Scroll down to ‘name a fair price’

Enter ‘0’ in the ‘name a fair price’ field if you want to download it for free

Click ‘I want this’ and follow the prompts... Enjoy! 🐾♥️