Introducing a new puppy to an older dog can sometimes be a delicate process, but with patience and careful management, it can lead to both dogs being the best of friends! This post will give you some great tips for introducing a new puppy with an older dog.
Getting a new puppy is so exciting! Your family is about to grow and add so much love. But for those with an older dog introducing a new puppy can bring up some questions and concerns to make sure your older dog does not feel replaced! Here are some steps you can follow.
This post is all about getting a new puppy with older dog at home!
1. Bringing The Puppy Home
Introduce the dogs in a neutral location, such as a park or a friend/neighbor’s yard if possible. This prevents the older dog from feeling territorial. If this is not possible, introduce them outside in your yard. Always supervise their interactions in the beginning. Keep both dogs on leashes to maintain control and intervene by picking the puppy up, or walking away if necessary. Once the dogs have had a chance to meet each other, bring them both to your own yard. After some play time, bring the puppy inside the house while someone else plays with the older dog outside. Allow the puppy to explore the house freely. Once done, reintroduce the older dog, ensuring the puppy is safely contained in its crate or playpen.
For the older dog, use a leash initially, but let it drop. If the initial introduction proves challenging, gently guide the older dog away using the leash and attempt the introduction later. Keep the puppy in crate at first so the older dog can get used to him being in the house. Once that seems to be going well bring the puppy out of the crate and allow the dogs to play. If at any time either dog starts to feel overwhelmed, territorial or just gets to excited, put the puppy back in the crate and try again once both dogs have calmed down.
2. Age Considerations / Rest Time
Be mindful of the energy levels and limitations of your older dog. Be sure the puppy’s playfulness doesn’t overwhelm or exhaust the older dog. Provide your older dog with plenty of quiet, uninterrupted rest time away from the puppy. Puppies can be quite persistent and may disturb or annoy the older dog during nap times.
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3. Daily Routine
Maintaining consistency in your older dog’s routine is going to be very important. By sticking to their normal schedule as closely as possible, you’re providing a sense of stability and familiarity that can help minimize stress and anxiety. Whether its feeding times, walks, playtime etc, keep the same daily schedule you always have and be sure to have some one on one time with your older dog.
4. Meal Times
Feed your older dog at the same time and place as always to provide a sense of familiarity and security. This consistency will help reassure your older dog that their routine is still the same despite the changes in the household!
When it comes to feeding the puppy, it’s best to do so in a separate room or area away from the older dog, especially at first. For one, the puppy will most likely be eating a different food than the older dog. This separation also prevents any potential conflicts or stress between the two dogs during meal times. Additionally, it allows the older dog to eat in peace without feeling threatened or anxious by the presence of the new puppy.
5. Separate Spaces
Having separate spaces for the two dogs initially is a good idea and then you can reassess after a few weeks. Crate training makes this very easy as the puppy will have his own crate for naps/bedtime. If your older dog is needing a break from the puppy, you can simply put him in his crate for a break. Think of the crate as a playpen or crib for a baby, rather than a cage.
While it’s important for the dogs to play and interact, monitor their play sessions closely to make sure it remains gentle and both dogs are having fun. Allow the older dog to set boundaries for the puppy’s behavior. If the older dog shows signs of discomfort or stress, give them space and redirect the puppy’s attention.
6. Prevent Jealousy
Making sure your older dog does not get jealous is one of the most important things to consider when getting a new puppy. It may happen to some extent in the beginning, no matter how hard you try. However, being aware of it right from the start will make a big difference.
While you’re busy training and keeping the new pup out of trouble, your older dog might start feeling a bit neglected. Setting aside some time each day to have quality one-on-one time with your older dog separately will help tremendously and ensure they still feel loved! Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, some quality snuggle time, or playing their favorite game, giving them that undivided attention helps them know they’re still top dog!
7. Have Patience
When you’re introducing a new pup to your older dog, being patient and understanding is key. Think of it like putting together a puzzle – it takes time for all the pieces to fit just right. It can take several weeks for both dogs to fully become adjusted but with consistency and positive reinforcement, they’ll become the best of pals before you know it!
This post was all about introducing a new puppy with an older dog.
