How can you get two dogs to get along and reduce aggression? Helping two dogs coexist peacefully requires patience, training, and positive reinforcement. Start by introducing them in a neutral space, supervise interactions, and reward calm behavior. Establishing clear boundaries and ensuring each dog has its own space can prevent conflicts.

In this article, we'll cover that- how do you help two dogs get along and expert strategies to ease tension, build trust, and create a harmonious home for both dogs.

Understanding Canine Aggression

Before you start working on improving the relationship between two dogs, it's important to understand what might be causing aggression. Some common reasons include:

  • Territorial Behavior – One dog may feel like they need to protect their home, toys, or food.
  • Fear-Based Aggression – A nervous or anxious dog might lash out to protect themselves.
  • Dominance Issues – Dogs naturally establish a hierarchy, and clashes may occur if both want to be the leader.
  • Lack of Socialization – If a dog hasn't been exposed to other dogs, they may not know how to interact properly.
  • Past Trauma – Rescue dogs or dogs with bad experiences may react aggressively out of fear or mistrust.

Steps to Get Two Dogs to Get Along

1. Start with a Neutral Introduction

  • Dogs are less likely to feel territorial in a neutral environment. Instead of introducing them at home, meet at a park or an open space where neither dog feels like they have ownership.

2. Use the Parallel Walking Method

  • A great way to introduce dogs safely is by walking them parallel to each other:
  • Keep both dogs on a leash, walking at a comfortable distance.
  • Let them see and smell each other from afar.
  • Gradually decrease the space between them if both dogs remain calm.
  • Avoid forcing direct face-to-face interactions too soon, as this can feel threatening.

3. Monitor Body Language

Dogs communicate through body language. Watch for positive signs like:

  • Relaxed tails and ears
  • Loose body posture
  • Playful movements
  • Be cautious if you notice warning signs such as:
  • Stiff body language
  • Growling or showing teeth
  • Prolonged staring
  • Raised hackles (the hair along their back standing up)

If you see signs of aggression, separate the dogs and give them more time before trying again.

4. Establish Individual Safe Spaces

  • To avoid tension at home:
  • Give each dog their own bed, food bowl, and toys.
  • Feed them separately to prevent food guarding.
  • Allow each dog to have quiet alone time to decompress.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement

  • Encourage good behavior by:
  • Rewarding calm interactions with treats and praise.
  • Distracting them with toys or activities when tension rises.
  • Avoiding punishment, which can increase anxiety and aggression.

6. Train and Socialize Together

Engage both dogs in activities that encourage teamwork and bonding:

  • Group obedience training sessions
  • Playing fetch together
  • Taking hikes or walks as a pack
  • Training should always be a positive experience, and consistency is key.

7. Set Clear Rules and Boundaries

Dogs feel more secure when they understand the household rules:

  • Maintain a structured routine.
  • Use consistent commands to prevent confusion.
  • Teach impulse control with commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.”

8. Address Resource Guarding

If one dog becomes aggressive over food, toys, or space:

  • Feed them in separate rooms or crates.
  • Remove highly valued toys during unsupervised time.
  • Teach a “drop it” or “leave it” command.

9. Supervise Playtime

Play should be fun and safe. If play escalates into rough behavior:

  • Interrupt with a cheerful distraction (like calling them for treats).
  • Give them short breaks to cool off.
  • Reward gentle play with affection and praise.

10. Avoid Favoritism

  • It's natural to have a soft spot for one dog, but both need equal attention. Spend time bonding with each dog individually while also creating positive shared experiences.

11. Consider Professional Help

  • If aggression persists despite your efforts, seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can make a huge difference. They can assess the situation and provide tailored training techniques.

What NOT to Do

To ensure a smooth transition and minimize aggression, avoid these common mistakes:

  • Don't Force Interactions – Let the dogs build their relationship at their own pace.
  • Don't Punish Growling – Growling is a warning signal. Instead of punishing, figure out what's causing discomfort.
  • Don't Leave Them Alone Unsupervised at First – Until you're confident they get along, always supervise their time together.
  • Don't Ignore the Warning Signs – Small conflicts can escalate quickly if not addressed properly.

Signs Your Dogs Are Becoming Friends

You'll know your dogs are starting to get along when you see:

  • Relaxed body language – Tails wagging, playful bowing, or gentle nudging.
  • Sharing space peacefully – They can rest near each other without tension.
  • Playing together – Chasing each other, rolling around, and taking turns in play.
  • Looking for each other – If one dog seeks out the other, that's a great sign of bonding.

Final Thoughts

Getting two dogs to get along and reducing aggression takes patience, training, and positive reinforcement. By understanding their behavior, setting clear boundaries, and promoting positive interactions, you can help them develop a strong and peaceful bond. With time, your dogs may not just tolerate each other—they could become best friends!