Introducing Your Finnish Lapphund to Existing Pets
A Guide for pet lovers
Welcoming a new dog into your home is an exciting adventure, especially when that dog is a charming Finnish Lapphund! Known for their friendly disposition and intelligence, Lapphunds can make wonderful companions. However, if you already have pets, especially cats or small animals, it's crucial to introduce your new furry friend in a way that ensures harmony in your home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this transition as smooth as possible.
understanding the finnish lapphund
Before diving into the whole process, it's essential to understand a bit about the Finnish Lapphund. These dogs were originally bred to herd reindeer in the Arctic Circle, making them adaptable, friendly, and social animals. They generally get along well with other pets but still have a natural instinct to chase smaller animals. Knowing this will help you prepare for their introduction to your existing fluffy family members.
Setting the Stage for Success
Before your Lapphund arrives, ensure that each of your pets has a safe space. Cats, in particular, appreciate having their territory respected. Create areas where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This could be a high perch, a separate room, or some cozy hiding spots.
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Desired Behaviours
Undesirable Behaviours
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First Impressions Matter
When you bring your Finnish Lapphund home, keep the initial meeting calm and controlled. It’s best to introduce them in a neutral communal space if possible. Ensure your Finnish Lapphund remains on a leash to maintain control and prevent any instinctive chasing behaviour. Consistently reward your lappy for all positive behaviour, including redirecting their attention back onto you. If there is any rushing towards your cat or attempts to chase, quickly redirect their attention and reward them for listening. After a few successful repetitions of this, they learn the rules pretty quickly.
let the cat take the lead
Cats are often more territorial than dogs, so allow your cat to approach the new dog at their own pace. Ensure your cat has complete freedom to explore and move around the house at will. Keep your Finnish Lapphund on a leash, and give your cat the freedom to sniff or observe from a distance. This step is absolutely crucial in establishing trust, comfort and safety with your cat, and also teaches your Lappy good manners.
use positive reinforcement
Encourage both pets with treats and praise during the introduction process. If your Lapphund remains calm and respectful, reward them. Similarly, if your cat approaches or shows curiosity, give them a treat as well. Place the treats on the floor at a safe distance from each other, as this creates positive associations with each other’s presence. If they’re eating in each other’s presence that’s a really great milestone!
monitor body language
Keep a close eye on both pets’ body language. Signs of stress in cats include swatting, growling, or fear (remember hissing is normal communication) while dogs may show stress or overexcitement through excessive barking, fixating or a stiff body posture. If either pet appears uncomfortable, take a step back and allow them some space.
gradual exposure
After a few successful short meetings, gradually increase the time they spend together. You can do this by allowing your Finnish Lapphund to explore common areas while your cat observes from a distance. Do some obedience training in the presence of your cat – they might even want to join you for a titbit!
A really great activity is to practice ‘Calm Puppy’ in the presence of your cat (where you lay your lappy down and relax them by stroking their whole body). This builds trust, security and safety between both animals and teaches your Finnish Lapphund that your cat is associated with rest, relaxation and cuddles!
Over time, allow closer interactions under supervision and when you feel comfortable that your Finnish Lapphund has learnt the rules and will not chase, let them off leash in the presence of your cat.
A really great activity is to practice ‘Calm Puppy’ in the presence of your cat (where you lay your lappy down and relax them by stroking their whole body). This builds trust, security and safety between both animals and teaches your Finnish Lapphund that your cat is associated with rest, relaxation and cuddles!
Over time, allow closer interactions under supervision and when you feel comfortable that your Finnish Lapphund has learnt the rules and will not chase, let them off leash in the presence of your cat.
Other Small Pets
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If you have birds, guinea pigs or other small pets, the introduction will require a bit more caution as they are less likely to reinforce their territory as cats do. Keeps small pets secure in their cage or habitat initially, and gradually increase exposure to your Finnish Lapphund. Constantly supervise all interactions and frequently reward your lappy when they are relaxed and focusing on other things around them. If they fixate on your smaller pet, gently redirect them, reward and repeat.
Playing some fun games with your Finnish Lapphund each time they’re in the presence of your small pet is a great strategy to teach your lappy their focus is on you and not chasing or getting overexcited about the other animal. |
conclusion
Introducing a Finnish Lapphund to your existing pets can be a rewarding experience with the right approach. By preparing your home, being mindful of each pet’s comfort levels, and taking things gently you’ll set them up for success. Remember that you are central to help create a peaceful and loving multi-pet household - patience, supervision, frequent rewards and ‘Calm Puppy’ relaxation techniques are vital.
With time, your Finnish Lapphund and your other pets will likely become the best of friends, enriching your family life in ways you never imagined!
With time, your Finnish Lapphund and your other pets will likely become the best of friends, enriching your family life in ways you never imagined!
