Introducing a new dog into your home can feel overwhelming, especially when you have one or more other dogs already living with you. As your new dog begins to adjust and becomes accepted by your resident dog(s), here are some things to keep in mind to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Allow a hierarchy to form. In the world of dogs, there’s no such thing as equal standing. Every dog is either superior or subordinate to every other. Although we humans love the idea of equality, dogs need to define who outranks who in order to live peaceably together. The best thing we humans can do is respect the ranking our dogs establish. If one dog consistently arrives first to be pet, fed, and go through doorways, this dog has established himself as the most dominant. If the other dog(s) are at ease, honor this dog’s position by consistently petting, feeding, and letting him out first.

Feed dogs separately. Especially in the beginning, feed each dog in a different room until they have established their relationship with one another.

Pick up high value toys and chews. Things such as Nylabones, pig’s ears, and greenies are better stored away than left out. Such objects are so delicious, dogs may fight over who gets what when.

Keep dogs separate when unsupervised. Until your dogs are completely comfortable with each other (and this can take months or longer), separate them when you aren’t home or can’t watch them. Be prepared for the possibility that your dogs may never be safe to leave alone together. This tends to be especially true with same sex pairings and dogs of vastly different sizes.

Brush up on your resident dog(s)’ obedience as well as teaching the new one. Obedience training is a great way to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Asking your dogs for behaviors also helps remind them that you are the ultimate leader of all the dogs. This can help your newest addition feel more welcome and your resident dogs feel more secure.

Spend time with both of them together and with each of them separately. Just as we get tired of our best friends, spouses and siblings, if we are with them all day every day, your dogs need breaks from each other. They also need some special time just with you. This can be done by setting aside formal activities such as obedience classes and dog sports or by taking only one dog hiking one day, and only the other dog to the pet store the next day.