How do you introduce a new puppy in a home where a dog alredady has lived?

[LCBRAT2]

I live in a multiple family home and own a rescue dog that has lived with us for 8 years. A new puppy was brought into the home over the weekend. They did not have the dogs meet on neutral territory. Now the older dog gowls when the puppy comes near. His tail is wagging but he still growls. Any thoughts or advice?

 

[Julia K]

You need to make them play together..
go buy a ball or toy. Ball usually works better.
you have to make them play together..
there's nothing much you can do..
what i did was .. i made them play together with the ball..
first, my older dog didn't like this.. but as time went on.. they started to play together.
Introduce your puppy to your older dog..
also.. you need to tell them you guys are family now and blah blah..
the older one must be jealous of the new puppy.
dont worry! time will solve this

 

[hellsangel0013]

I personally dealt with this issue a few months ago. It is not uncommon for dogs to dislike other dogs...especially of the same sex. First you need to introduce them outside on neutral territory. Lay the puppy on his back so he is submissive to the older dog and allow the older dog to sniff away. This is important to do in small increments every single day. After a few days take them inside to meet. Make sure to correct your adult dog immediately if the growling does start or if he shows his teeth. Trust me, introducing a new puppy to an older dog is hard work. Not all dogs want to automatically play and are excited to have another pack member. Make sure never to let them share food or toys. Dogs can be very possessive over that. As long as you put the work in; over time your dog and the puppy should hit it off. Keep in mind that certain dogs just hate all other dogs and have to be the only dog in the household. Best of luck.

 

[AmandaT]

Older dogs don't really like puppies, I've noticed with my dog. When she was a puppy the older dogs didn't like her because she was really energetic. I recommend you seperate them in different rooms, have a blanket from the young puppy and give it to the older dog to sleep with. This will get the older dog use to the smell of the young puppy. Do some training with each other and walk altogether so they will know that they are a whole pack.

Good Luck.

 

[the DT]

Give it time. It may just be a matter of old dog vs. new energy. Just make sure you watch their interaction closely. Dogs pick up on your anxiety so have the expectation that they will be fast friends.