Introducing new dogs into existing multi-pet households requires careful management to prevent stress, aggression, and welfare deterioration in both resident and newcomer animals.
Dogs introduced too quickly or without appropriate management experience significant stress from territorial challenges, resource competition, and social uncertainty. Chronic low-grade conflict in multi-dog households can be difficult to detect but profoundly affects welfare - resident dogs may be chronically anxious, lose weight, or develop redirected aggression toward owners. Structured introduction with management of high-value resources prevents most serious conflicts.