Vacation dog double-up!

bonster

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#1
I'm planning a trip to see my father in the coming month.... I'm in Spain, he's in England... and wondered if other members had any advice on putting two dogs together temporarily - for a few weeks.

Both dogs are GSD-X rescues (bitches) -- his fully socialised, about 9, calm/friendly, loves other dogs, he's had her for years... mine a "teenager" (18 months, only recently rescued) and catching up on puppyhood.... excellent indoors though, but excitable outside + with new people/other dogs.

I'm hoping to stay at his place (rather than on my RV outside!!) - has anyone done anything like this and able to offer any advice?

I'm thinking to introduce the dogs and have them play outside first.... but wondering... do you feed them together... will they sleep in the same area etc.... should they be seperated quite a bit during the stay???
I'm also wondering whether the older GSD will find the visitor fun/mother her.... or think whats this mad youngster doing in my house :eek:

I guess a lot of it is "play it by ear" but I don't want to upset my Dad's dog nor unduly stress mine.... or have them form too deep a friendship only to break it after a couple of weeks....

All advice/suggestions/experiences much appreciated.
 
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#2
It sounds like there shouldn't be any real problems, but just to minimize the possibility even further, I'd introduce the two dogs in neutral territory, maybe take the two of them on a walk in a park or through the neighborhood. That accomplishes two objectives: one, obviously, is to do the intros away from the older dog's home turf, and the other is it introduces them while they're experiencing a "treat experience" together - all dogs love to go walking and explore new places.

I think I'd feed them separately - maybe feed yours in the RV - so there are no opportunities for food aggression. As you say, it's not like this is going to be a long term situation where they need to get used to doing everything together.

Other than that, lots of attention to both, keep treats in your pocket, and have a favorite toy or two that you keep in the RV. That's so she can go to the RV and chill out occasionally without it feeling like she's being ostracized or punished. Kind of treat the RV as a haven for her.

If you shut the door of the bedroom you'll be sleeping in at night there shouldn't be any problems with staying in the house.
 

bonster

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#3
Thanks - I think the idea of having a sanctuary and a seperate favourite toy is great - its handy I'm going in my RV.

Here's a piccy of the older dog - "Bronte"

 

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