Wondering how to introduce a new puppy to your existing dog? A behaviourist explains how to manage first meetings and avoid stress.
Please can you give me some information on introducing a new puppy to my existing dog? Should my existing dog be made to feel she is top dog or should they both be treated as equals?
Behaviourist Claire Arrowsmith says: "It's important that your bitch is made to feel secure and happy when the puppy arrives. The dogs should both be given plenty of choices over sleeping areas and toys so that your bitch doesn't feel stressed at suddenly having to share."
Another alternative can be remove food and toys from the equation for the first few visits to stop guarding or competition, The Blue Cross include this within their guide for new pups.
"Eventually, they should bond and may choose to sleep together, but this shouldn't be forced upon them. It can be useful to have a separate area to place your puppy so that your bitch gets a break at times during the day in addition to her normal walks."
A massive part of learning to live together is learning to be apart, Battersea recommends making sure in the early stages of your pets friendships both dog and pup are given plenty of breathing space with physical boundaries to seperate them.
Usually consistency is the most critical factor in maintaining good relations with dogs. Prior to getting your puppy I would make sure that you instil some good ground rules that you would like both dogs to follow. Think about reducing any extra fussing or attention your bitch gets from you so that she feels less change when the puppy arrives.
Make sure you then praise your bitch and provide her with nice things when the puppy is around so she builds up good associations with him.
For more tips on the first few days with your pup: