Bulldogs and other Dogs

Bulldogs and other dogs

Some things to consider include:

• Bulldogs play rough, it's just their style, they can often sound like they are fighting which can be intimidating to other dogs who aren't used to this play style.
• If possible, it is good to choose a neutral space to introduce dogs when meeting for the first time.  Also try to introduce them slowly with a gate or barrier between the dogs so they can see and sniff each other first without feeling threatened by physical contact.
• Bulldog puppies are often fearless, don't expect them to calmly roll over when meeting a new dog.
• Puppies have a lot of energy for playing and can upset older dogs if they don't like being confronted with an over excited puppy trying to jump all over them and play.
• Do not leave the new puppy with other dogs until you are sure that they are comfortable with each other.  This may mean that you need to keep them in separate rooms when they aren't being supervised until they are used to each other.
• Be aware of whether or not your dogs are resource protective and think about how you will prevent fights over food, bones, toys etc.
• Good play behaviour includes things such as pausing between scuffles, sneezing, shaking their coat and looking away from the other dog.  These are all signals to the other dog that the play is not serious.  Monitor their play and reward good behaviour to encourage fun play.
• Separate the dogs if one is showing signs of stress (see above) before the situation escalates.
• Make sure you can give each dog equal attention, toys, bedding, etc. so they don't feel they are missing out because of the new arrival.
• Never let dogs dominate each other by humping or pinning the other dog down for too long.  Play should be equal, Alpha Dog theory is not correct, you do not want a situation where one dog is the 'Top Dog' in the family bossing the others around.