How do I introduce my new kitten to my dog?

How do you introduce your new kitten to your dog, so they can establish a peaceful co-existence? Slowly. When you first bring kitty home, put her in a room, safe from the dog. Let the curious canine sniff the room’s door. After a few days, allow kitty to explore the rest of the home while the dog is crated or not there. Next, put your dog on a short leash for a supervised visit at a distance. Reward him for staying calm, but correct him for aggressive behavior.

Over several days, gradually let the two pets get closer, eventually allowing them to interact. Separate them if kitty shows fear. Once it seems safe to leave them both unsupervised, put up a baby gate on kitty’s safe room so she can retreat from the dog’s advances.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

• previous: How do I introduce my new kitten to my other cat?
• next: How do I introduce my new kitten to my children?