Dogs are by far the most devoted pets all around the world. If you live alone and already have a dog, you might feel tempted to get another different type of pet.

So if you're looking for a new pet that won't take up much of your time or space, you can get an exotic leopard gecko for a good price. These little reptile pets have a docile nature and look gorgeous, thanks to their patterned skin. Some even speculate that leopard geckos are fond of human interactions and can even develop attachment.

However, if your dog does not like the new reptilian member, things can be difficult. Dogs are loyal and friendly but can also get agitated quickly. It will take some time for your dog to get compatible with a leopard gecko.

Which dogs are compatible with reptiles?

There is no single dog breed that is ideal for reptiles. If properly trained, any dog can get along with a leopard gecko. That said, certain dog breeds are easier to train than others. These dogs are more accepting of other pets as well. 

Basset hounds, Goldendoodles, and St. Bernards are some of the breeds that are easy to train and have a very friendly nature. In general, dogs that are crossbred or have been domesticated for a long time are friendlier. 

German Shepherds, Dobermans, Chihuahuas, pit bulls, and other dogs that were previously predators or hunters will be unfriendly at first. However, they will eventually accept their new pet friend. As a result, be aware of your dog's breed and take appropriate measures.

How to Introduce Your Dog to a Leopard Gecko?

Let's look at some of the things you'll need to follow when introducing your dog to a leopard gecko or vise-versa.

1. Store your Reptile in a No-Dog Room

The first thing you need to do is keep your reptile in a room with no other animals. Do not keep them in an enclosure. 

Instead, let them roam around the room. Although geckos are not that agile, they do move from time to time. Keep them in this room for at least a week. The dog, under no circumstances, should enter the room during this time.

You should also store your gecko’s food where the dog cannot enter or reach. Geckos eat a variety of nutritious insects. One of the most common ones is dubia roaches. If you do not find them at your local store, check authentic online shops to get Dubia Roaches For Sale at a great price.

2. Reptile Goes out, Dog Goes in

Since the reptile has been staying in that room for a while, its scent will be all across the room. When the dog goes inside that room, it will notice the new smell of the reptile. 

This is done to make the dog realize there is another creature in this house, and that creature poses no harm. It will take time, but the dog will eventually get used to the smell of the reptile. 

3. Teach Your Dog Commands

Your dog should be taught how to behave with other living beings. In addition to the conventional "Sit, Stand, Lay Down" commands, the dog must understand that you are in charge and must obey your orders promptly. 

You can gain control over them by rewarding it with treats and punishing it if it doesn't obey. This will give you better control over your dog when you introduce it to the gecko and make them more sociable.

4. Be Cautious When Introducing Them

After your dog gets used to the smell of the gecko, you can finally introduce the two pets. But do not just leave them by themselves. It is not guaranteed that the dog will be friendly towards the gecko. The last thing you want for your leopard gecko is to turn it into dog food. 

Keep the gecko in your hands and slowly bring it near the dog. The dog will try to sniff the little reptile, and since it was already used to the smell, it will not immediately go and attack the pet. 

5. Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior

When the dog is introduced to the gecko, see how it acts. If it is jumping and running around, that means it is exciting to meet its new friend. Your job is done here for now. 

However, that will not always be the case. If you see your dog looking at you and letting out small growls, that means it does not like the new pet. 

If it is moving slowly around the gecko and giving it an intense stare, that means it is hostile towards the pet and might attack it any time. When the dog gives these signals, you need to take some extra measures.

Keep in mind, even dogs have anxiety, so do not expect them to be buddy-buddy right away.

6. Keep The Enclosure Of The Gecko Nearby

The next best way to make the dog accept the gecko is to keep them in places where the dog can see the gecko at all times. Keep the gecko in its enclosure, but keep the enclosure at a safe distance from the dog. 

The more your dog sees your reptile, the more it will realize that the reptile poses no threat. 

Yes, it will take a long time based on the nature of your dog, but it is the only way to get the two together. 

Over time, you will see that the dog is not looking at the gecko intensely and sitting near the enclosure. This means that the dog has already accepted the gecko as another member of the house.

Some Common Mistakes Owners Make

Whether you are a new owner or an experienced one, here are some common mistakes almost everyone makes.

1.Not Reading The Mood

A lot of owners do not understand the behavior of an afraid or annoyed dog. If they do not understand the behavior, they cannot take action properly. This can lead to some pretty unfortunate accidents.

2.Introducing Them Too Fast

It takes a while for animals of different species to get along. So if you rush things, your dog might end up attacking the gecko from its instinct. They cannot understand instantly that this leopard gecko is harmless. 

So take as much time as you need and slowly get the dog used to the leopard gecko. 

Final Thoughts

It will take some time for pets of two different kinds to become acquainted with each other. With proper training, it should not take more than a month before the two get along. You can then flood your Instagram with cute photos of your leopard gecko on top of your dog’s head.