Cross Breeds

How do I introduce 2 small dogs to each other that are both fairly new to the family?

I adopted a 1 year old female Miniature Dachshund about a month ago, and she knows my parents and me pretty well. Because my mother missed her pug that died recently, she then decided to adopt a 2 year old male Chihuahua. I've been up at our summer home alone for a week with the Doxie, and my parents will soon arrive with the new Chihuahua. My Doxie likes to chase animals (birds, squirrels) and bark at neighbors while she's outside, and she barks at everything at the window. I'm pretty sure she'll be barking at the newer dog. What things can I do to help create a positive relationship between the 2 small dogs? Do I assertively push the dog to the ground in a submissive position like Cesar does when they first see each other? Do I walk them together first? Eventually they will need to sniff each other. What should I do then to prevent a fight? Should I even expect a fight? Do these 2 breeds just have barks louder than their bites? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. You can't force them to like eachoter , but put them both on a leash and let them sniff eachother. Do that for a couple of days!!
2. They may like each other, they may not. For sure, they should be introduced on neutral ground. Best case scenario - at a dog class with an experienced set of hands and eyes to assist you if there is a fight. Worst case scenario, you try it on your own, there's a fight, you try to stop it, and the Dachshund nails you. NEVER under estimate a dog who's tough enough to run badger to ground. If you get my drift.
3. Bring both dogs to a neutral environment. You hold one dog and have someone else hold the other dog (on a leash). Let them sniff each other, and have a water bottle in your hand in case there is growling. Because they are both on leashes, if there is a problem, you can quickly pull them away. Small dogs do tend to bark a lot, because they are trying to seen tough. You should not expect them to fight, but you should be prepared for it. Do not put either dog in a submissive position. They will eventually decide who is the dominant dog. Don't worry, I'm sure they will get along just fine, and if they don't, they don't. Don't act nervous around both of them because they will sense that. Hope this helps!!!
4. You should introduce the dogs on the leash and let them sniff each other, etc. After a while you will want to take them off the leashes and keep an eye on them, but don't step in unless one dog is going to be injured. (of course if one is much bigger than the other you will want to teach the bigger dog to be gentle) The dogs will need to establish who is boss between them so the best thing is not to interfere in this process. be very careful if they do get in a fight, it is very impulsive to get your hands in there to break them up, but dog fur is a lot more protective than our skin. If you feel that there may be a fight then you should prepare yourself earlier with some gloves (leather gardening gloves are quite good even with big dogs)
5. definately have them meet outside first. dont expect a fight, dogs pick up on the negative energy. expect them to be the best of friends, and you might be pleasantly supprised. take them both on a long walk to tire them out together though. tired puppies are usually good puppies. hope all goes well.
6. Try to get them in the same place together and maybe give them some toys they can share. Also, try holding them both at the same time.