How can you tell if your dogs are bonded to each other? Let’s Explore

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#7: They groom each other

The AKC tells us that this behavior stems from when they were puppies.

Mother dogs often groom puppies as a way to clean and comfort them.

Puppies also lick their mom’s muzzle when they transition from milk to semi-solid food.

According to research, they do this as a way to say:

Domesticated pups have retained this behavior from wild dogs.

In fact, wolves do it with their cubs today.

Ultimately, it’s their way of showing that they care for and respect the other dog.

So you can find bonded pairs licking and nibbling on each other.

They’re communicating that they want the same from their pair. Just like when they asked their moms to care for them.

#13: They don’t fight

One amazing thing about dogs who have bonded is that they don’t fight.

It’s such a rare occurrence. And you’ll really notice it because they’re always together.

Bonded pairs have an established relationship. Each dog usually knows how the other would react in certain situations.

But there are times when there are confrontations. Especially when it comes to food or toys.

And it’s not safe to go between fighting dogs without knowing what to do.

Dr. Christine New advises dog parents on how to prevent and stop this.

Step 1: Don’t use any part of your body to stop the fighting. You’ll risk dog bites. And may end up in the ER for stitches.

Step 2: Use either of these to distract the dogs:

  • Spray water on them.
  • Broom or chair between.
  • Make a loud noise (shutting the door).

    • Never yell at them. It will only increase arousal. And may worsen the fight.

    Step 3: Keep them separate once you’re able to.

    Dr. New tells us to take the following precautions:

  • Allow their alone time.
  • Spaying and neutering.
  • Avoid dog-heavy places.
  • Separate feeding places.
  • Leashes on when outside.
  • Store food and toys safely.
  • Choose a companion dog of the opposite sex.

    • Note: These are suggestions on what steps to take.. There are many reasons why dogs fight. The best course is still a professional consultation.

    If it happens all the time, there may be underlying issues. Take them to the vet to rule out hidden medical conditions.

    Then take them to an animal behaviorist for behavior management training.

    #3: They get stressed when separated

    In rescue shelters, the staff has to look out for bonded pairs.

    Most adopters shy away from taking two dogs together.

    So these dogs have a high possibility of staying at the shelter for longer than most.

    Even short periods away will cause them to show signs of stress:

    VCA tells us that these are:

  • Hiding.
  • Pacing.
  • Licking.
  • Barking.
  • Shaking.
  • Whining.
  • Drooling.
  • Yawning.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Shedding.
  • Dilated pupils.
  • Pinned-back ears.
  • Low body posture.
  • Displacement behaviors.

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