Introducing a new puppy to an existing dog

When introducing a new puppy to existing dog there are a few rules to follow so this introduction goes smoothly and does not turn into a riot at your home. I have done this a few times, and while this transition period for both dogs usually goes well, there have been times when it was a bit dicey, so below are a few simple things you can do to ease the new puppy into your home without the resident dog becoming nasty towards the pup.

Introducing a new puppy to existing dog

Your current pet might be a cat or other animal, but let’s look at the best ways for introducing a new puppy to existing dog. When you go to pick up the puppy have a soft blanket with you that has been vigorously rubbed over your other dog so his or her scent is on this blanket. Wrap the puppy up in this blanket so the pup has an opportunity to smell the other dogs scent. This will begin to immediately familiarize the pup to the fact another dog is in his future.

Already have all the essentials for a puppy on hand at home. New food and water bowls, puppy chow, puppy toys, new blankets and doggy bed, and the place you want to keep the puppy in your home.

When making the initial introduction, never show up at home with the pup and just turn him loose. Your resident dog is going to need time to adjust and accept this other dog invading his territory and he could react roughly with the pup. To prevent this happening use a dog carry crate so the puppy is protected. Gradually let the two canines sniff each other and over a short period of time let the puppy out while keeping your adult dog on a leash but allowing him to check-out the puppy. Dogs are sensitive animals with feelings so your current dog will need to know you are not pushing him aside for the puppy. Give plenty of love to him for reassurance he is not on his way out because of the puppy.

Preferably the pup should be well-socialized before you bring it home. Also spend some time letting the puppy play vigorously before the introduction, so he won’t be “wide open” the instant they meet up.

If your existing dog is a senior, remember what Cesar Millan says on the CesarsWay.com site:

The nature of dogs is that they don’t raise puppies when they are advanced in age; just like us, they want to raise their kids when they still have the energy to keep up with them. It’s not that the puppies are “obnoxious” to them – it’s just that they have another state of mind – puppy hood vs. senior hood. In order to be around the older dogs, the puppy has to already have his social skills and his energy drained so they will accept him into the group.

As your adult dog responds positively to the puppy reward him with plenty of praise and his favorite treat. As you are introducing a new puppy to existing dog never leave them alone until they have accepted each other. This may take days to a few weeks, but they will eventually become best friends.

How do you deal with this situation? Tips and advice are welcome as always in the space below.