by Amanda Kringle

Created on: July 06, 2010   Last Updated: September 13, 2010

If you are a dog owner who is dealing with  problems between your dog and your new flame it can be stressful. However before you run off and get rid of pooky or even say adios to the new flame you need to think about the possible causes of this behavior.

As a dog owner its very important that you understand the social instincts of a canine. They are wired to have a specific hierarchy of individuals. You as the master should be the leader. You as the head of their pack are their protector and their whole world. Despite what you may think, domestication of dogs did not erase these instincts. Domestication only replaced members of the pack with humans instead of other canines. Instead of your dog being reliant on the activities of a pack, your dog relies on you for everything; food, water, protection, love and all of his other needs. When you bring in another person your dog will not necessarily be friendly. This other person is an outsider to your dog. He or she is not a member of his pack and therefore is not respected. Adding a new person to the pack can make your dog feel that his or her position has been usurped. This will cause him to feel vulnerable and angry. Your dog will begin to show aggression or dislike to this new comer and will do what he or she can to ensure that their place will not be taken.

It is important that you understand how your dog is feeling and treat him or her with respect, love and reassurance. You must take the proper steps to introducing your dog to your new flame especially if you have any intentions of making the new accommodations permanent.

1. Talk with your new partner: Before you surprise your dog, take a moment to talk with your new partner regarding your pooch. You need to know if or she has any reservations about dogs or any fears of them. This will do a few things for you; first it will help you prepare and plan for their first meeting and second you will look awesome for considering the possible feelings of your new flame.

2. Slowly introduce your dog: Your dog needs to know that he or she has not been replaced and they need to know that you as their master is asking them for their approval of this new comer to your pack. Its important that you bring your new partner over to meet the dog. Have him or her give treats, talk to the dog quietly, calmly and in a non threatening way. Any threatening movements will be interpreted as such. In such a case your dog will either run and hide,

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