Adding a second furry friend to your household is a great way to expand your family. However, you can’t just come home one day with a puppy. Everyone, including current pets, needs to be on board with the new arrival, and all dogs don’t get along, even if properly socialized. Uncover great tips for introducing your puppy to your senior dog to ensure your current four-legged resident approves of the new pup.
Know Your Dog’s Temperament
Is your senior dog properly socialized? Have they played with other dogs? Like people, our dogs have unique personalities; some are loners, while others love having a pack. Additionally, not all dogs have the patience for an excitable puppy and may find all that energy annoying.
Ensure Both Are Vaccinated
Puppies receive their vaccines at specific ages, so they may not have all of them yet, but the seniors should. Certain diseases like parvovirus are lethal and passed from dog to dog, so ensure your dog has these shots before meeting the puppy. Additionally, dogs should have a fecal exam, heartworm preventatives, and flea or tick protection. Remember, puppies may not have all this yet, so your job is to ensure your senior dog is healthy.
Talk With the Breeder
You may fall in love with one puppy on a breeder’s website, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best one for your family. Dogs have an incredible way of choosing us, so you may be surprised which pup you end up taking home. Talk to the breeder before selecting a new dog and describe your current pet’s personality. The breeder will know which puppy is the ideal fit for your entire family.
Joie de Vivre Dobermans
Joie de Vivre Dobermans is a reputable European Doberman breeder with an in-depth understanding of the breed. We understand the personality of each pup in our litters and use that to help families find the perfect dog to purchase.
Let Them Meet
Having both dogs meet is one of the essential tips for introducing senior dogs to puppies. This should happen in a neutral environment, so neither feel territorial. Keep both on leashes so you have control as they sniff one another. You’ll want to watch for signs of aggression, including:
- Growling
- Teeth baring
- Rigidity
- Nipping
If one or both dogs display these behaviors, separate them immediately to diffuse the situation. Canines can react this way out of fear, protection of their owner, or as a defense mechanism. A senior dog may also act this way towards a pup to show it who’s the alpha. If the dogs don’t get along, you may want to pick a different puppy.
Set Boundaries
If both dogs get along and you buy the puppy, it’s time to prepare your home. Both dogs need to understand that there are boundaries. Your senior dog has been there longer and shouldn’t have to give up its bed or favorite spot on the couch. However, they also need to know they can’t get too rough with the puppy. You have the perfect pack when both of your dogs are happy!