New Dog Meets Old Dog: Making the Relationship Work

Getting a new puppy is an exciting time, but your other dog might not share the same enthusiasm. He may view this new addition as a threat, instead of as a new playmate. Your older dog may experience stress, since a new pup may change his established routine. To make the transition as easy and reduce stress as much as possible, follow these 5 simple steps.

1. Introduce your dogs on friendly turf. Pick a park or neighbor’s yard. On neutral territory, your older dog will view the puppy as less of a threat.
2. Start the puppy in a small space where your older dog doesn’t spend a lot of time. This will ease him into being part of the family, without throwing him in full force. Putting your dogs together in early weeks may cause the older dog to lash out at the pup. You cannot predict when a fight could take place.
3. For 60-90 days, do not feed your dogs together. Dogs instinctively protect their food, and you want to prevent any early confrontations.
4. Be sure to still spend individual time with your older dog. Staying close to his normal routine will also help the puppy seem like less of a threat.
5. Don’t leave your puppy and older dog unattended as they start to interact. If the older dog becomes aggressive, put the puppy back in a crate and ignore the older dog. Remain attentive and calm to ensure the situation does not escalate.

Be patient! Your new puppy and current dog may not become friends right away. It will take a few weeks, and a little time, for a relationship to develop.