When you are introducing a new puppy, there is a myriad of things you need to do to ensure that their relationship is a happy, nurturing, and generally altogether positive one.
Here, for your information and as a way of making the transition easier for both yourself as well as your current dog and the new one, are the top tips when introducing a new puppy to your older dog.
Their Very First Meeting
The very first time your dog meets your gorgeous bundle of puppy fun, you should make sure not to do this alone and bring the dogs together in a central meeting place separately and on separate leashes.
Let the dog greet the puppy in its own time and never force the interaction; it will most definitely happen, and there is no need to rush. Let the two dogs establish their new and exciting relationship on their own terms, and remember to keep both leashes as slack as possible and at the same length.
Walkies!
Once your dog and puppy have said their initial ‘hellos’ and engaged in obligatory sniffing and circling, it is then time to take them for a short walk around the initial meeting area.
It is best to finish back where you started, where the natural smells of both dogs will still be present on the ground. If the puppy tries to fight with the dog, or indeed the opposite, you should intervene, but categorically in no way does that mean you have to pull them away.
Instead, distract both dogs with a tasty treat given to them separately and gently lead them away from each other.
Bringing Your Puppy Home
Once your puppy and dog have been introduced and are, even though still intrigued and hyperactive with each other, comfortable in each other’s presence, you can then bring your puppy back home with you. Remember that you should register your new puppy with a qualified and respected veterinary Magnolia based, who is well-experienced in treating young dogs.
Walk home from the initial meeting area together, and if possible, let both dogs out in the backyard before entering the house. If they start to fight, again separate them as calmly as possible with treats and do not even consider bringing them both inside until they have begun to form their bond.
The First Few Weeks
Once your older dog has gotten used to a new waggy tail in the home and they have at least formed a safe and welcoming bond with each other, with supervision, you can let your new puppy off its leash and let it explore the house.
During the first few weeks of bringing your puppy home, be sure to keep your family routine as normal and as regular as possible and always maintain close supervision when the dogs are playing together and interacting in any way. Additionally, ensure that your new puppy has enough toys to play with so that the temptation to steal your older dog’s much-loved toys is kept to a minimum.
