How to Adjust a New Puppy With a Dog

A new puppy is an exciting addition to most families. Everyone wants to pet the new pup. It's hard for the newcomer to get enough rest because of all the attention it gets. One member of the family that may not be as happy about the new addition is the current dog. Even a dog that loves the company of other dogs may not be thrilled to share its home with a new puppy, especially if that puppy seems to be getting all the attention, love and new toys. In most cases, it will all work out well in the end, if you are careful about how you introduce the new puppy.

Things You'll Need

Leashes
Collars
Crates or other means of separating pets

Instructions

- 1
  
  A new puppy is usually happy to meet anyone, so consider your older dog's needs more.
  
  Introduce the new puppy to your current dog on neutral territory, such as at a park. Even just taking the dog for a walk and meeting the puppy along the walk will be better than just suddenly bringing the new pup into your dog's territory. Both should be on a short leash (no retractable leashes), with an adult in control of each.
- 2
  
  Things can quickly get out of hand without close supervision.
  
  Keep the puppy separate from the older dog at all times when not supervised. A crate for the new puppy will be helpful in protecting it from the older dog, protecting the older dog from the pup, and house training the puppy.
- 3
  
  Puppies don't yet know to wait their turn.
  
  Feed the puppy separately from the older dog, or feed them on opposite sides of the same room with an adult to supervise each one. Puppies are used to a free-for-all during feeding time when in their litter with siblings. They don't have the best manners when eating near an adult dog.
- 4
  Give equal attention to both the puppy and the dog. Do not lavish your new puppy with attention, toys and treats while ignoring your older dog. In some cases it may be desirable to favor the older dog a little more than the puppy.