Visiting friends with dogs: How to introduce dogs safely and avoid conflict

Raising dogs, much like raising children, is done slightly differently by every set of pet parents. Visiting friends with dogs can be hectic, and patience is often tested. When routines, attention or access change, some dogs may struggle and display behaviours you have not seen before. A little planning and clear communication can make visits far more positive for everyone involved.

Common challenges when dogs mix in someone else’s home include:

Sharing the resident dog’s space, which can lead to resource guarding of areas, toys, bowls or people. Introducing dogs on a neutral walk and returning home together can help reduce tension.
Communication difficulties between dogs, particularly for flat-faced breeds that are harder for others to read.
Stress-related breed behaviours. Labradors may carry or swallow items, herding breeds may try to control movement, and lap dogs can become protective of their chosen person. Knowing your dog’s natural drivers and providing exercise and downtime helps them cope.
Different household rules. Some dogs are allowed on sofas or fed from plates, others are not. Agreeing a few shared rules that align with the resident dog’s routine can reduce confusion. Plan ahead for dogs that need quiet time or space away from others.
High-risk areas for conflict, such as food preparation spaces, dining areas, narrow corridors, busy entrances, favourite resting spots, high-value toys or chews, shared water bowls, and gardens where excitement can escalate.
Lack of clear resting places. Giving each dog their own bed, mat or towel helps prevent competition over sofas or laps when everyone settles later in the day.
Human tension affecting dogs. Dogs pick up on our emotions, so keeping voices calm and interactions relaxed helps everyone feel safer.
Unclear expectations for visiting owners. Let guests know what helps, such as using mats during meals, avoiding toy play in shared spaces, not allowing plate licking, and asking you to manage your own dog if needed.

With realistic expectations, calm supervision and plenty of appropriate snacks and downtime, visits with dogs can be enjoyable rather than stressful, creating a positive experience for both dogs and people.