Introducing an Older Dog to a Puppy
If you are considering adding a new puppy to the family and already have an older dog, there are some things to consider when allowing them to meet for the first time. At The Perfect Pup, we host Puppy Daycare and Dog Training Day Camp which allows us to observe the interactions between dogs and puppies on a daily basis. Introducing an older dog to a puppy should be a cautious yet positive process. Using positive reinforcement will ensure that your new puppy and older dog become fast friends. Here are some tips on introducing an older dog to a puppy.
Find a neutral spot to introduce your older dog to the puppy.
An older dog considers your house their territory. When the first introduction between your dog and the puppy occurs, it should be in a neutral location so there are no territorial disputes. A good location would be in an environment such as a park or even a safe parking lot. Make sure that both your dog and the puppy are leashed during the interaction in case of emergencies. You don’t have to hold on too tight; they should be allowed to sniff and interact safely with each other.
How should I act when my older dog first meets the puppy?
You should always act calmly at the first meeting. Dogs can easily sense tension and are more likely to become stressed if you are. Your dog will likely look to you for an answer as to how they should react to the situation. Staying calm and using positive reinforcement will ensure a safe and happy meeting for all.
What should I do when the puppy comes home?
It is imperative that the puppy and your older dog get close supervision the first week or two. This monitoring will help you to gauge whether the dogs are comfortable with one another. Keep an eye on your older dog’s body language to see how he is reacting to the puppy. Puppies don’t always understand the language of other dogs and may push the older dog too hard to play. If your older dog is showing signs of discomfort, it might be time to separate them.
Signs to watch out for are prolonged staring, growling, displaying teeth, and raised fur on the back. Lastly, don’t deviate from your older dog’s usual routine and begin planning a new one for the puppy. Having a routine for the puppy will provide a first step in the necessary structure of training and growing up.
How can I tell if my older dog is getting along with the puppy?
A good indication as to whether dogs like each other is if they are playing together. Watch for the signature “play bow” which indicates one dog is inviting the other to play. A dog yawning also indicates that they are not a threat to each other. Remember that whines, barks, growls are used both in play and in a threatening manner. Paying close attention to these sounds as well as the body language can indicate whether it is play or aggression.
A puppy will show submission to the older dog by rolling on its back and licking the dog’s mouth. If a puppy displays these behaviors, an older dog will usually remember it is a puppy and cut it some slack. Only allow play for a few minutes during the first introduction and then end the initial meeting on a positive note with lots of praise and treats.