Puppy
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7 min
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If you’re feeling like the love and joy you have for your current dog is big enough for two, you may be looking to bring a new puppy into the mix! But amongst all the excitement around a new member of the family, how do you make sure things will run smoothly - especially when introducing them to your other dog?
Read on to discover what you should consider when bringing another puppy into a home with an older dog, and what you can do to make the introduction safe, positive and void of any hiccups.
If you’re in the final few stages of securing your new pup, you’re most likely going to be back and forth from breeders, or the shelter, to get acquainted with your pup - and vice versa! This can be used to your advantage when it comes to prepping them for when they eventually meet their older brother or sister.
When preparing your puppy to meet your older dog, you should consider:
As a dog parent, you can take certain measures to ensure your dog is not only prepped for the new arrival, but so their first introduction goes super well - prioritising the health and safety of both pups involved. These include;
Your current dog will be very accustomed to their life as a lone wolf, knowing their home as their territory and your family as their pack which they’ll want to protect (even if it is from who delivers your post and parcels).
As pooch lovers first and foremost, we know how exciting the idea of a new puppy is. But you shouldn’t let this squash the needs of your current dog as at this point, they should be your number one priority!
A few things to consider before making that final decision include;
In the case that you have any doubts about introducing a new puppy to your older dog, or you think there’s any risk of things going pear-shaped, it might be a good idea to reevaluate your decision or get some additional advice from your vet or trainer.
However, on the brighter side, getting a pal for your older dog could be exactly what they need, and can even offer a huge improvement to their life. If all’s looking good and boxes are being ticked, let the preparations begin!
Approaching the first meeting: Step by Step
Before your puppy officially comes home with you and your older dog, it’s a good idea to test the waters a little first. Reputable breeders and shelters should offer or agree to organise a prior meeting between your puppy and older dog, just to make sure your pup will be completely happy in their new home, and your current dog is 100% happy with their new housemate.
There are a few actions you can take when arranging that first meeting to ensure you’re approaching it with the best intentions, keeping both pups happy and hopefully resulting in a happily ever after!
1: Choose a neutral area. It’s best if the first meeting is in a spacious, neutral space, away from somewhere your dog would think of as their territory.
2: Keep leads on. Just so you’re prepared for any scenario, it’s best if leads are kept on whilst the first meeting takes place.
3: Keep your distance, gradually getting closer. Begin with both puppy and dog on leads at a good distance away from each other. Provide treats and positive reinforcement when they calmly spot each other from afar.
4: Let the sniffing commence. When they have first contact, be sure to allow all the sniffing. This is how they’ll first get to know each other - they’re essentially shaking hands!
5: Try parallel walking around the area. If that first initial meeting has gone well, try going for a walk around the area side by side as they get accustomed to each other’s presence.
6: Monitor their behaviour closely. Be on the lookout for the body language of your puppy and your dog, looking for any signs of anxiety, stress, fear or aggression. This may show through tucked tails, pinned-back ears, growls and baring teeth.
7: Take regular breaks. This is a big day not only for your pup but for your older dog too. Be sure to take time to step away from all the excitement, focusing your dog’s attention on you, and giving them lots of love to create a positive experience.
8. If all is well, try bringing them home. If this is the very first meeting, you might want to plan a couple more playdates. But if this is one of a few successful meetings, you might want to try bringing both the pups home to see how your older dog reacts in their territory. Be sure to take the same precautions - watching body language, using sporadic distance and rewarding good behaviour.
9: Positive reinforcement and reward good behaviour. If your older dog is doing a stellar job and accepting your puppy as a new friend, make a big fuss of them! Giving them treats and love ensures they recognise this is a fun, positive experience.
As well as embarking on the wonderful journey of raising another dog, bringing a new puppy into your life can come with many advantages that even benefit your older dog!
These include:
After the first few meetings have gone swimmingly, it’s time to crack on with your new normal - as a dog parent of two! But this also means caring for your dog, and running after your puppy as they explore the world. There are a few things you can do to ensure you’re continuing the socialisation of your dog and new puppy, and ensure they’re keeping safe and happy.
Raw veggies make great tasty treats for younger puppies, but to help keep things calm and zen, try our range of Probiotic Meaty Treats, suitable for puppies 12 weeks and up! These meaty treats come in a variety of flavours and functions, are great for enrichment, and ideal for training. They’re perfect for your older dog too!
Introducing your puppy to your older dog is a big step! And if all goes well, it marks the beginning of your new life as a dog parent of two. With both an adult dog and puppy running around the house now, we’re here to ensure both pooches are well-fed from our dog and puppy ranges - which have chosen ingredients to aid their growth, health and development.
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