Binx, our overweight, spoiled, petted and patted black cat?

Question

never had any problems getting along with Riff, our chocolate lab who is, sadly, no longer with us. He would stand between Riff's front legs, and eat out of his dish...the two of them were friends.

But he doesn't seem to be too fond of Raggedy Andy, our shih-tzu, who came to live with us last Christmas.

Rags has been a major joy to me. I still miss Riff, of course...one dog can no more replace another than one child could replace another. But he has fit himself into our lives, and our hearts...

Well, most of us, that is. Except for Binx, who, although Riff has been gone for almost two years, still seems to resent Rags, and will not accept him.

How can I help him??

Answer 1

Do not force the situation. Remember that Labs are the most amazing and laid back dogs in the world. They have a personality that would never let them hurt anyone. Your Shis-tzu may have a different personality that Binx is uncomfortable around. I tried introducing my lab to my Maine Coon and while both are really great and calm animals, my Coon gets scared if the lab gets too hyper.

Let them come together on their own, but do not expect the best of buddies scenario.

Answer 2

Well, how did you introduce them?  If it was right away, then no wonder Binx is upset!  He wanted to be the alpha male, as the alpha male was gone.  He expected to get that rank.  Then you brought another unknown dog into his territory.  

I would try to get them together as much as you can, associating good behavior and tolerance with treats.  Once they see that getting along brings yummy food, they should start to be ok.  I did this with my cats, and now they're buddies (and love a can of tuna opening, let me tell ya)!