Why Doesn’t My Older Dog Like My Puppy
My older dog doesn’t seem to like my new puppy. I have tried everything from giving her treats, to playing with her, to even taking her for walks. But she still doesn’t seem to enjoy the company of my new pup. Is there anything I can do?
It is not uncommon for an older dog to be uncomfortable with a new addition in the household. It is important that you give your older dog some time and space before introducing them to your new puppy. You should also try different ways of introducing them so they don’t feel too threatened by the presence of a younger animal in their home.
What if my older dog doesn’t like my puppy?
Create positive associations with the puppy Pet and give positive reinforcement (treats, praise) when your older dog is calm. Move the puppy closer as the older dog can handle it without becoming stressed. Keep giving high-value treats to the older dog so that he’s associated great things with the puppy.[1]
How do I get my older dog to like my new puppy?
Find a neutral territory. Before bringing your puppy home, take them and your senior dog to a neutral location. Use a leash. Keep both dogs on a leash with someone calm at the other end. Follow your dog’s lead. Some dogs may warm up to one another faster than others.[2]
How long does it take for older dog to get used to puppy?
It can take up to one month for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other’s position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic.[3]
Will my older dog ever like my puppy?
Usually, grown dogs will accept a new younger dog. But to successfully add a second dog to your family, you must take the time and follow the proper steps to introduce a puppy to an adult dog. Some older dogs will make joining their pack difficult for the newbie![4]
What is second dog syndrome?
In dogdom, there’s a turn of phrase called, “Second Dog Syndrome”. This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.[5]
Should I let older dog growl at puppy?
Don’t punish your dog for growling at the puppy. Growling is normal dog communication, and he is letting the puppy (and you) know he’s had enough. Instead of punishing this important communication, calmly separate them.[6]
Can my older dog become depressed because we got a new puppy?
Beaver said major changes in a dog’s life could lead to periods of depression. Those include moving into a new home, a new spouse or baby in the household, or adding another pet. Even a change in the dog’s schedule, for instance a stay-at-home owner who takes a job, can cause a dog to get down.[7]
Will my dog get jealous if I get another puppy?
Introduction of a New Pet Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.[8]
Why won’t my dog get along with my new puppy?
One of the main reasons for a dog not getting along with another is due to jealousy. They may feel like they are not getting enough attention. When the new dog being introduced to a family is a puppy, it is common for human guardians to be excited by the cuteness and novelty.[9]
How do I get my older dog to stop attacking my new puppy?
Establish safe spaces. The first thing you need to do is to separate your older dog and the new puppy, to keep them both safe. Set boundaries. Exercise and play. Train them separately and together. Create positive associations. Provide opportunities to bond. Consult an expert.[10]
Are dogs happier with another dog?
Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.[11]
Is having 2 dogs easier than 1?
Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.[12]
