Take obedience training classes. Many vets can recommend a good dog trainer. Some pet stores even offer puppy socialization and obedience classes. You and your dog can not only learn helpful commands, but also work on creating a strong bond. Your dog will be more likely to listen and pay attention to you if she feels comfortable with you as an owner and authority figure. [1] X Research source Practice commands with your dog. If you and your dog need a refresher course on basic commands like sit, you should practice with your dog in a comfortable place like at home. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Practicing these commands will allow the dog to become familiar with your cues and she will be more willing to listen to you. You want these commands to be comfortable with both you and the dog.
You do not want either animal to feel pressured. A neutral space can help the animal to not have additional external stresses. Meeting new friends is stressful enough! Make sure your dog is not feeling confined with too tight of a leash or collar. The neutral space will help you relax as well. You want to be able to be comfortable in this space and be able to observe interactions. Pick a place that is comfortable for all involved.
Give them time to acquaint themselves. You do not want to put pressure on either animal and scare them. Though on the whole, dogs aren’t likely to be afraid of rabbits. Your rabbit might feel a little spooked around your pup, though!. Be positive with the slow introduction. Encourage your pets with positive verbal cues like: “Good girl,” or “Gentle. " Your pets should hear and react to your authoritative and gentle tones. Slow introductions allow your pets to get to know each other and feel more comfortable with one another.
Watch the body language during this introduction. If the rabbit is kicking, breathing hard, or trying to escape, then remove the dog from the room and let the rabbit calm down. Also be aware that a stressed rabbit may sit in a hunkered down position and attempt to ‘play dead. ’ If the rabbit is not running away, it does not necessarily mean he is accepting the dog’s presence - he may just be too frightened to move. If the dog is acting too excited, take time to calm the dog down by having it sit and stay for a few minutes while she calms down. A stressed rabbit may also lay their ears flat against their back while their eyes are bulging.
Make sure each animal is in the right mood for a meeting. Animals, like people, can have bad days. You do not want the first few meetings to happen if an animal is ill or under stress.
Other territorial places may include where the animal sleeps or relieves himself. Keep a watchful eye when the rabbit and dog interact near these places. They may act territorial toward you. They may grow jealous of the other with your attention. Make sure you show each animal care without riling protective instincts from the other one.
A dog’s breed may not completely signify a dog’s personality. Monitor your dog’s personality before considering introducing them to any pet. Dog breeders may disagree on appropriate dog breeds to house with rabbits. Be aware of conflicting opinions when introducing a new dog breed into your home.
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