We have a house guest. One of my Granddogs is here for the long weekend. I have often had Penny here for several days or a week; but this time our visitor is Luna. Luna is a little rescue mix. We are not sure what she is but she looks like a mix of cavalier and Japanese Chin to me.
Luna is a very tiny girl with a big luxurious coat. She came from a rescue group with no past information on her life before her new one. She is not fond of new people until she gets to know them. It can take a couple of visits but once your in, your in. She is not a fan of large dogs but likes others her size.
When we introduced Luna to Elsa it took sometime until a face to face was advisable. Luna is a very alpha female. Elsa is a fun loving, highly energetic, rambunctious girl., mature and non submissive. In other words she will always choose to play over anything but will not back down when confronted. In the beginning of their relationship, Luna wanted to be the boss; telling Elsa what to do and when. Knowing that Elsa would not appreciate this in her home, we took our time.
As you can see from the image above, they now coexist. If it was up to Elsa they would be best buddies. When Luna arrives at our house, Elsa spins, leaps and smiles. They charge out to the backyard where Luna stops. She gives Elsa a "look" to remind her that she does not indulge in this crazy behavior. Off they go with Luna peeing in the yard and Elsa peeing on top of every single pee that Luna does. Is in Elsa's yard and she knows it.
Not all dogs get along the in the same way. Many relationships need a great deal of work to a good place. Luna and Elsa now hang out together. Luna is not a touchy feely type with Elsa and so they co-exist. They can eat together and are at this moment on my bed together as I write. The bed could be an issue but I have made it a very structured event. Supervision, supervision.
I love when I see them lying together on their own. It is a funny relationship but it is just that, a relationship. No relationship is the same as another. Luna sleeps in another room and is only allowed on the bed while I write. The bed is Elsa's special place and sleeping with me is her right as my constant companion. Both girls are sound asleep right now, nice.
When it comes to dogs and relationships with other dogs; you must look at each as a separate entity. If you have a houseful of dogs; each will have a different relationship with each other. You cannot force a relationship but you most definitely can nudge it with very careful work. Knowing your dog/dogs is essential.
I know that Elsa loves other dogs who are non threatening. She will always choose to be friends if the other is willing. That said if the other is pushy or threatening then it will not go well. Luna is use to being the boss lady so she has had to learn that she cannot be the boss in this house.
I have to laugh when I watch Elsa choose to lie beside Luna outside in the sun. The look on Luna's face is priceless. Her expression and body language clearly says "really blondie, you have the whole place and you have to lie right here beside me?" :)